Roman-Numidian relations and their impact on the fall of Carthage

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the Roman–Numidian relations in North Africa and their impact on the fall of Carthage, focusing on the strategic role of the Numidians in the political and regional balance before and during the Punic Wars. The study shows that Numidia, due to its geographical location and political-military structure, played an influential role in its relations with Rome and Carthage, as Rome used it as a tool to gradually undermine Carthaginian power.

The study also indicates that the Roman–Numidian alliance contributed directly and indirectly to weakening Carthage politically and militarily, paving the way for its final fall in 146 B.C. The findings suggest that understanding these relations provides insight into the nature of regional transformations in North Africa and the role of local powers in the struggles of great powers.