Hannibal
Crosses the Alps
Hannibal
is believed to have entered the foothills of the Alps with
about 50 000 infantry, 9 000 cavalry, 37 elephants, siege
engines and pack animals.
Due
to extreme cold, land slides, bad weather, hostile tribes
and some bad luck the army emerged on Roman soil 15 days
later with with about 38 000 soldiers, 8000 cavalry &
perhaps 12 elephants.
Whilst
there is much argument about the exact route Hannibal's
forces took it is estimated that they traveled about 280kms
or 173 miles to cross the Alps.
Controversy
also exists about where Hannibal's elephants came from?
- It is thought that he used the now extinct North African
Forest elephant.
Possible
Extension -
-
Research Hannibal's campaign. List the four most impressive
feats of the campaign & why is this military action
remembered today?
-
What stories can you find about Hannibal's favourite and
bravest elephant.
-
Record the losses experienced by Hannibal's army in Roman
Numerals.
