The Punic Wars between Rome and Carthage spanned the years from 264 - 146 B.C. With both sides well-matched, the first two wars dragged on and on; eventual victory going not to the winner of a decisive battle, but to the side with the greatest stamina. The Third Punic War was something else entirely.
Tribes neighboring Carthage knew that according to the treaty between Carthage and Rome, if Carthage overstepped the line drawn in the sand, it would be interpreted as an act of aggression against Rome. These neighbors took advantage of this reason to feel secure and made hasty raids into Carthaginian territory, knowing their victims couldn't pursue them.
Eventually, Carthage could stand these incursions no longer. In 149 they armed themselves and went after the Numidians.
Rome declared war. Although Carthage didn't stand a chance, the war was drawn out for three years.
1 - Italy - The Growth of Roman Power in Italy
2 - Territorial Expansion of Rome
3 - Northern Africa at the Start of the Second Punic War
4 - Roman Empire 1st Century A.D.
5 - Map of the Extent of the Roman Empire
6 - The Roman Empire about 395
7 - The Roman and Hunnic Empires about 450
