In this interpretation, Carthage followed a Phoenician approach in which a major battle should establish leverage for a negotiated settlement. Rome did not respond to setbacks in that expected way. It absorbed losses, rebuilt forces, and returned with greater determination across a war lasting more than two decades. The mismatch in strategic culture helps explain why Carthage's earlier successes failed to secure peace and why the conflict became progressively harder for it to sustain.
Notable Point · 32:38-33:45
Carthage and Rome expected wars to end differently
Carthage expected a major defeat to produce negotiation, while Rome repeatedly rebuilt its strength and continued the struggle.