Carthago delenda est

Definition

This term refers to the famous phrase "Carthage must be destroyed" spoken by Cato the Elder during the Punic Wars. It signifies Rome's determination to eliminate their rival city-state, Carthage.

Analogy

Imagine two sports teams competing for a championship title. One team is so determined to win that they declare "Our opponent must be defeated!" That's similar to Rome's attitude towards Carthage.

Related terms

Punic Wars: A series of three wars fought between Rome and Carthage from 264 BCE to 146 BCE, resulting in Rome's victory and the destruction of Carthage.

Cato the Elder: A Roman statesman known for his conservative values and strong opposition against Carthage. He popularized the phrase "Carthago delenda est."

Hannibal Barca: A Carthaginian general who famously led an army across the Alps into Italy during the Second Punic War, posing a significant threat to Rome.