The Romans became involved in the Punic Wars after they intervened during a 264 B.C. dispute between the city of Syracuse (who had allegiance to Carthage) and Messina (who Rome supported). Thought the battle initially started simply between Syracuse and Messina, once Rome intervened, it transformed into a full-scale conflict of more than 100 years between Rome and Carthage.
Rome built up its naval fleet over the course of the next several years until it was ultimately able to win a decisive sea battle against Carthage. This battle allowed Rome to win a major victory by obtaining Sicily.
Over the course of the next several decades, Rome was also able to obtain control of Spain and parts of North Africa. Finally, in 146 B.C., Rome overtook Carthage. Rome gained control of the ancient city and sold many of the 50,000 surviving residents into slavery.
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