Secondary sourceBookc. AD 150
The Hannibalic War and The Punic Wars (Libyca)
Appian of Alexandria · c. AD 150
An independent ancient Roman history describing Hannibal's campaigns in Italy and the battle of Zama, including his famous ranking of great generals.
Appian's history narrates Hannibal's Italian campaign and the battle of Zama, and preserves his famous self-ranking among great generals.
About this source
What it is
Written in Greek by the historian Appian of Alexandria around AD 150, these sections of his larger Roman History narrate Hannibal's war in Italy and his final defeat at Zama.
Why it matters
Appian's account is independent of other surviving ancient sources, giving historians another perspective on Hannibal's campaigns. It is also the source of a famous story in which Hannibal ranks himself alongside Alexander the Great and Pyrrhus of Epirus as one of the greatest commanders in history, revealing how Hannibal's own reputation was remembered and perhaps embellished by later writers.
Look closer
- Why might different ancient historians give different details about the same events, like the battle of Zama?
- What does the story of Hannibal ranking himself among great generals tell you about how his legend grew over time?
- How reliable can a history written centuries after the events be, and what should readers keep in mind?
This book is part of the curated material that grounds the AI version of Hannibal Barca on Humy.ai — when students ask about related events, the AI can quote it and cite it.
More Hannibal Barca sources
Meet the AI Hannibal Barca →
Ready when you are
Start chatting with Hannibal Barca now.
20 messages free · No credit card · Available in 50+ languages.