History of Wars Summary 16 - The Second Punic War 3: Hannibal Crosses the Alps

In 218 BC, Hannibal began a daring expedition, crossing the Alps from Gaul. Despite heavy losses due to the mountainous terrain, cold, food shortages, and attacks from local tribes, Hannibal eventually reached northern Italy. Rome had not anticipated Hannibal crossing the Alps and was caught off guard, unable to respond effectively to the sudden invasion. Hannibal fought Roman forces in northern Italy, securing consecutive victories in 218 BC at the Battle of the Ticinus River and the Battle of the Trebia River. Particularly at the Battle of Trebia, he pressured the Roman army with ambushes and maneuvers, inflicting significant damage. Following these victories, several Gallic tribes joined Hannibal, further strengthening his army. Rome raised new troops to counter him, but Hannibal seized the initiative in northern Italy. His objective was not merely to defeat the Roman army but to destabilize the alliance system Rome relied upon. The war was now set to continue for an extended period on Italian soil.