The Punic Wars were a series of three wars fought between the Roman Republic and the Carthaginian Empire from 264 to 146 BC. The first war, primarily a naval conflict, was triggered by tensions over control of Sicily. The second war featured the famous general Hannibal, who crossed the Alps to invade Italy, leading to significant Roman losses but ultimately culminating in a Roman victory. The third and final war resulted in the complete destruction of Carthage. The Punic Wars were crucial for Rome's expansion into the Mediterranean, establishing it as a dominant power and paving the way for its eventual empire.