Hannibal Barca was a disciple of Alexander the Great and Pyrrhus. He led the Carthaginian army during the Second Punic War between Rome and Carthage. He was a brilliant strategist, who developed the Hellenistic tactics of outflanking and surrounding the enemy with the combined forces of infantry and cavalry. He also pioneered the concept of using smoke signals to notify his troops of upcoming events. Additionally, he used military intelligence as a valuable tool in his trek across the Alps. He was a military leader whose bravery and skill made men, although largely legionnaires, loyal to his cause. He was a daring general, who often went up against forces twice his size; although his armies won most of the battles they fought. He was committed to defeating Rome, but only on his terms. He intended to destroy the Romans in their homeland. However, he neglected to understand the manning capabilities of the Roman Empire and its will to survive. He is noted as one of the all-time greatest military leaders in history. ...
