Fall of Carthage 146 B.C.

Carthage was one of the leading trade centers in the Western Mediterranean and the main rival of Rome. After a long conflict with the emerging Roman Republic, known as the Punic Wars (264–146 BC), Rome finally destroyed Carthage in 146 BC. This marked the beginning of Rome’s emergence as the dominant power in the Mediterranean and the expansion of its influence, culture, and control into Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and other surrounding regions.