Hannibal Barca (247–183/181 BCE) was a Carthaginian general and one of the most formidable military commanders in history. Born in Carthage (present-day Tunisia), Hannibal is best known for his role in the Second Punic War against Rome. As a young man, he swore an oath to his father, Hamilcar Barca, to forever oppose Rome, which influenced his lifelong enmity towards the burgeoning republic. His most famous military feat was leading a massive army, including war elephants, across the Alps into Italy in 218 BCE, a maneuver that caught the Romans off guard and led to several significant victories, including the Battle of Cannae in 216 BCE, where he delivered one of the most devastating defeats in Roman history. Despite his tactical genius, Hannibal was unable to secure a decisive victory and ultimately could not prevent Carthage's defeat. After the war, Hannibal remained a persistent irritant to Rome, participating in various political and military roles until his eventual flight and death, which is widely believed to have been by suicide to avoid Roman capture. His legacy endures as a symbol of military ingenuity and unwavering resistance.