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The Punic Wars — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging history reading passage explores the Punic Wars, a series of conflicts between the Roman Republic and the Carthaginian Empire that shaped the future of the Mediterranean world. Students will learn about key events, such as Hannibal’s daring march across the Alps and Rome’s ultimate victory at Zama, as well as the causes and effects of the wars. The passage includes primary source references, analysis of military strategies, and discussion of the wars’ significance. Activities include a glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, graphic organizers, and a timeline. The resource is aligned with CA HSS 6.7.3 and CCSS RH.6-8.2, and features both read aloud audio and a Spanish translation.

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[Battle scene during Second Punic war, showing hand-to-hand combat].
Source: Library of Congress

The Punic Wars were a series of three major conflicts fought between the Roman Republic and the Carthaginian Empire from 264 BCE to 146 BCE. These wars were among the largest of the ancient world and decided which power would dominate the western Mediterranean. Rome and Carthage, both powerful city-states, competed for control over trade routes and territories.

The First Punic War began in 264 BCE over the island of Sicily, which was a crucial strategic location for both powers. Carthage, known for its strong navy, held the upper hand at sea. However, Rome quickly adapted by building its own fleet and training sailors using a captured Carthaginian ship as a model. According to ancient historian Polybius, the Romans invented the 'corvus,' a boarding device that allowed them to fight naval battles like land battles. After over two decades of fighting, Rome won and gained control of Sicily.

The Second Punic War (218-201 BCE) is famous for the Carthaginian general Hannibal, who led his army, including war elephants, across the Alps into Italy. This remarkable campaign surprised the Romans and resulted in several defeats, including the Battle of Cannae in 216 BCE, where Rome lost tens of thousands of soldiers. Despite Hannibal's early victories, he could not capture Rome itself. Eventually, Roman general Scipio Africanus invaded North Africa, forcing Hannibal to return home. In 202 BCE, Scipio defeated Hannibal at the Battle of Zama, ending Carthage’s threat to Rome.

The Third Punic War (149-146 BCE) was much shorter but extremely destructive. Rome, fearing Carthage’s recovery, laid siege to the city. After three years, Roman troops broke through the walls and destroyed Carthage. Archaeological evidence shows that the city was burned and its population sold into slavery. This victory allowed Rome to control the entire western Mediterranean and expand its empire further.

The Punic Wars had significant effects on both societies. Rome grew wealthier and more powerful but also faced new problems, such as social inequality and unrest among conquered peoples. The wars demonstrated the importance of military innovation, alliances, and leadership. Over time, the balance of power in the Mediterranean shifted, leading to centuries of Roman dominance and influencing the course of European history.

Today, the Punic Wars help us understand how geography, ambition, and technology can shape the destiny of civilizations. Their legacy is seen in ancient ruins, historical writings, and the expansion of Roman culture across Europe and North Africa.

Interesting Fact: Hannibal’s crossing of the Alps with elephants remains one of history’s most daring military feats, and modern archaeologists are still studying the exact route he took.

When did the First Punic War begin?

264 BCE218 BCE146 BCE202 BCE

Who led Carthage across the Alps?

HannibalScipio AfricanusPolybiusJulius Caesar

What island was fought over in the First Punic War?

SicilyCorsicaSardiniaCrete

Why was the invention of the 'corvus' important?

It let Romans board shipsIt helped elephants cross mountainsIt signaled Roman attacksIt was used to build cities

What effect did the Punic Wars have on Rome?

Rome became more powerfulRome was destroyedCarthage ruled RomeRome lost Sicily

What evidence shows Carthage was destroyed?

Archaeological remainsRoman poetryCoinsShipwrecks