alternatehistory.com

Roman envoys met with Hasdrubal Barca at New Carthage in 226 to work out a settlement granting Carthage dominance south of the Spanish River Ebro, and ensuring that they were formally prohibited from expanding their holdings north of the river. It's believed by many that Rome established its relationship with Saguntum just before the signing of this treaty.

But what if Rome hadn't made an alliance with Saguntum? What if Rome had simply arranged for the signing of the Ebro Treaty and left Spain alone? Could Rome have accepted Carthaginian domination of Spain? Would Hannibal have been contented with conquering the Iberian penninsula along with the wealth and manpower that came with it?

Discuss the possibilities that could have arisen with no Saguntum Tripwire. Note: I've included now one scenario taking Hannibal into Italy in early October of 216.
Top