Hannibal Barca (247 โ c. 183 BC) was a Carthaginian general and statesman, widely considered one of the greatest military commanders in history. During the Second Punic War, he led an army including war elephants across the Alps into Italy.
In Italy, he won dramatic victories against Rome at Trebia, Lake Trasimene, and Cannae, the latter being a masterpiece of tactical encirclement. Despite occupying much of southern Italy for 15 years, he could not force Rome's capitulation.
Recalled to Africa to defend Carthage, he was finally defeated by Scipio Africanus at Zama in 202 BC. Decades later, forced into exile by Rome's pursuit, he eventually found refuge at the court of Antiochus III, advising him against Rome, but ultimately committed suicide to avoid capture.