This book studies a very exciting time of the ancient world: The period 247-183 BC, where one of the greatest generals of all
time lived and two of the mightiest powers of
history collided for the rule of the world. Rome and Carthage then, had become the strongest competitors for the control of the Mediterranean Sea.
Rome still not the forthcoming superpower, was fighting to dominate the Italian peninsula. Carthage on the other hand, through its strategic position (Tunis) and rich colonies in Sicily was forming into a fearful rival. The struggle for power was only a matter of time. The first war ended with a tie and left unsettled business. Carthage, now under Hannibal’s Barca command, abandoned Sicily and decided to expand in Spain. Rome inevitably reacted to this prospect and the 2nd war begun.
However, things were now quite different. Hannibal was a most capable leader who deeply hated Romans and has sward to destroy them. For that purpose he prepares one of the most daring and glorified military plans: to move the warfare into the enemies’ field through the inaccessible mountain chain of Alps. At 218BC Hannibal with a large
army of Carthageans, mercenaries, slaves, even elephants, starts his perilous adventure from today’s Valencia, to south France, Alps and finally northern Italy. His achievement shocks Rome. Hannibal crashes the Roman army in several battles killing thousands and terrifying the entire province. But Rome soon will reply to Hannibal’s plans. With careful and strategic moves recovers and Hannibal is forced to follow the cruel faith of his family and his country.
The author, John Prevas, is a well known historian with many studies in humanity sciences special in the Greco-Roman period. As in his other works, he puts together the facts without using conventional methods. Here he follows literally the steps of his heroes displaying an autopsy in the traces of Hannibal’s army through their journey. He walks the mountain routes and paths searching for surviving evidences and resemblances with the sources, giving accurate descriptions and shedding light in doubtful matters. His conclusions are being verified by optical proofs (photos) and interpretations strictly based on historians as Polybious and Lyvi. The writing style of the
book is informal and very pleasant. Descriptions are meticulous but don’t tire as they examine interesting aspects like the daily life of the soldiers, their needs, hardships, and solutions they gave through their long crusade. That makes the about 300 pages, easily readable by people who aren’t necessary historians or fun of the topic.
It is quite possible of course the narrative form to leave demanding readers unsatisfied. The vast majority however, will study it enjoyably taking history lessons the same time. “Hannibal crosses the Alps” is a history road trip that travels us to an old era, which determined in great extent the evolution of the western world.
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