The Rest Is History 640. Rome’s Greatest Enemy: Carthage at the Gates (Part 1)
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Feb 2, 2026 A dramatic retelling of Hannibal’s rise and Carthage’s peak after Cannae. They probe why Hannibal did not march on Rome and how Rome somehow kept fighting. The discussion follows naval rivalry, the Barcid campaigns in Spain, and Hannibal’s audacious Alpine crossing. Syracuse and Archimedes’ extraordinary defenses and the siege that shifted power in Sicily also feature prominently.
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Cannae: Tactical Triumph, Strategic Miss
- Hannibal's victory at Cannae was tactically perfect but strategically inconclusive because he didn't or couldn't press on to take Rome.
- Tom Holland argues exhaustion, logistics, and expectation that Rome would capitulate explain his restraint.
Rome's Resolve Outlasted Catastrophe
- Hannibal expected Roman collapse after massive losses but misjudged Roman political culture and resilience.
- Tom Holland emphasizes Roman refusal to negotiate and their 'never accept defeat' mentality as decisive.
Fabius Calmly Stopped Panic In Rome
- After Cannae Fabius Maximus restored public order by forbidding mass mourning and guarding city gates to stop flight.
- His calm leadership and the Sibylline rites signalled Rome would continue the war, not sue for peace.
