Scipio Africanus the Elder (person)

Publius Cornelius Scipio Africanus

Roman General

Initial fame came from fighting and defeating the Carthagian armies in Spain following his conquer of New Carthage (Cartagena).

Following his success in Spain, Scipio wanted to attack Africa. Members of the Roman Senate who were jealous of his growing success and fame only allowed him to go as far as Sicily. In Sicily he trained a volunteer army and finally was granted permisison to attack Africa.

The invasion by Scipio's volunteer army and allied Numidians prompted Hannibal to return to Africa (from Italy) to negotiate peace. Scipio's demands were so harsh no compromise could be reached and war was the only option.

In 202 BC Scipio defeated Hannibal at Zama and was awarded the title Africanus. Upon returning to Italy Scipio retired and spent the remainder of his life dealing with the bitter politics of Rome.