A decisive battle could determine who held the advantage in peace negotiations. Rome repeatedly responded to defeat by rebuilding and returning with another force. Carthage also persisted, but its economy depended heavily on maritime trade. Roman warfare offered commanders opportunities to acquire wealth, giving successful command a strong personal attraction. These different incentives help explain why battlefield defeat did not necessarily end a Roman war.
Notable Point · 58:24-1:00:10
Trade, war profits and Rome's willingness to rebuild
Roman rebuilding and the rewards of command complicated expectations that a decisive battle would lead to peace.