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The third century before the common era was a time of empire-making and empire-breaking especially in the western Mediterranean, where a conflict was brewing that would shape the future of the known world. |
First Punic War (264-241BC)
(- threads, 26 posts)
 Cnaeus Cornelius Scipio Asina
Historical Thread
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"All the same, from consul, he became prisoner, and from prisoner, consul." Valerius Maximus, De Viris Illustribus 6.9.11
A Cornelius from a branch that was becoming known for its military reputation, Cnaeus Scipio was consul in 260BC and, after realising that to defeat Carthage the Romans would need to get their feet wet, was given command of the first Roman war fleet. While investigating the possible capture of Lipara, Scipio became blockaded in the harbour. The inexperienced Roman sailors panicked and collapsed entirely, with the consul being taken prisoner. At some point in the following year, Scipio, now nicknamed 'Asina' (the 'Ass'), was either exchanged or ransomed back to Rome and he was consul again in 254BC. If he thought he needed to prove himself, he accomplished that completely as he took a new fleet, surrounded and captured Panormus. He regained his pride but did not lose his nickname which has stuck with him ever since.
