642. Rome’s Greatest Enemy: Bloodbath in Africa (Part 3)

The podcast examines the Second Punic War, focusing on the pivotal Battle of Zama between Hannibal and Scipio Africanus. It explores Scipio's strategy of invading North Africa to draw Hannibal out of Italy, highlighting the political tensions in Rome surrounding Scipio's ambition and unconventional approach. The roles of key figures like Fabius Maximus, Massinissa, and the ill-fated Sophonisba are examined, detailing their influence on the conflict's trajectory. The discussion covers Scipio's controversial tactics, including the burning of enemy camps under the guise of negotiation, and analyzes the factors contributing to Hannibal's defeat at Zama, such as the Roman army's improved training and Carthage's lack of cavalry. The podcast concludes by tracing the post-war fates of both Hannibal and Scipio, including Hannibal's exile and Scipio's political downfall.