Hannibal Barca, the legendary Carthaginian general, emerged as an implacable nemesis of Rome. Born in 247 BC, his brilliance as a military strategist and his uncanny ability to inspire unwavering loyalty among his men propelled him to prominence. Hannibal's invasion of Italy in 218 BC marked the beginning of the Second Punic War, a conflict that would rage for over 15 years. With his elephants and a formidable army, Hannibal inflicted crushing defeats on the Romans, including the infamous Battle of Cannae in 216 BC, where he annihilated over 50,000 enemy soldiers. His extraordinary military exploits and his unwavering determination made Hannibal a symbol of defiance against Roman dominance.
