The Rise of the Roman Empire

Book 14 opens with Polybius noting the historical weight of the 144th Olympiad, during which the wars in Italy and Africa ended. He focuses on Scipio’s campaign in Africa against Hasdrubal as Rome sought to bring the Second Punic War to a close. While wintering near Utica, Scipio prepared for both naval and land attacks while maintaining secret communication with the king of the Masaesyli tribe, hoping to draw him away from Carthage. Observing the enemy’s poorly constructed winter camps, Scipio orchestrated an assault at night. He deceived the king into believing that violent conflicts were behind him and used this as a cover for his spies to enter the enemy’s camps.

Once spring arrived, Scipio divided his forces, sending some to target Hasdrubal, another general by the same name as Hannibal’s brother. The surprise attack led to the destruction of both enemy camps by fire, causing chaos and heavy casualties. The Masaesyli king Syphax and Hasdrubal escaped with only a small calvary. Following this success, Scipio captured several nearby towns, while the Carthaginians, now demoralized, debated their next steps. They attempted to regroup, forming a joint force with their allies of over 30,000. Scipio met the renewed force at the Great Plain and defeated them in battle.