Abstract This paper describes the Battle of Cannae in great detail using powerful verbs and statements that depict the battle. The paper shows the genius of Hannibal and his ability to master the art of military leadership. The paper explores Hannibal's Carthaginian roots and examines his military leadership prowess that culminated in the Battle of Cannae. The paper highlights Hannibal as the finest Carthaginian general ever known.
From the Paper "Hannibal Baraca, a descendant from a prominent Carthaginian family, led the Carthaginian army into the heart of the Roman Empire, and he struck fear into the hearts of the Roman peoples for many years. The battle of Cannae would be the culmination of Hannibal's abilities as a General, and in this battle Hannibal's army butchered the biggest Roman army to date that mustered around 80,000 men by some accounts. Chabrais once had these words to say about leadership, " An Army of deer led by a lion is more to be feared than an army of lions led by a deer". There is no doubt that Hannibal was a lion, but the other advantage Hannibal had was that his men were seasoned savages that fought like wild beasts on the battlefield bringing total destruction to their enemies. According to Brian Caven, "with the death of Hasdrubal and the succession of Hannibal ... The Army of Spain passed from the control of a mature statesman, ... into that of an impetuous young man in whom the principal motivating force was a burning desire for military glory"(85). Hannibal Baraca, the finest Carthaginian general ever known, feared by his enemies, would have his finest hour as a General at the battle of Cannae."
