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The Influence of Naval Power on the Expansion of the Roman Empire

The Punic Wars, particularly the First Punic War, highlight the significance of naval power in Roman expansion. Rome, primarily a land-based force, was forced to build its own navy to counter Carthage's dominance in the Mediterranean. Technological implementations like the corvus (a bridge for boarding enemy vessels) played critical roles here.\n\nThe triumph of the Roman navy in this period didn't just solidify Rome's control over Sicily, it also set almost a military blueprint for future conquests. Modern discussions about the Roman Empire often credit the disciplined legions for Rome's success. However, it's important to remember that control of the seas was just as vital in opening routes for both trade and further military expeditions. Especially in the Eastern Mediterranean, naval expeditions played a significant role in Rome's territorial expansion.

Submitted 9 months ago by MaritimeManiac


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Have always been amazed by how prolific the Romans were. To think that on top of having disciplined legions, they managed to build a navy that competed with Carthage's! Rome wasn't built in a day indeed.

9 months ago by CaesarFan_63

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The construction of the Roman navy shows a remarkable adaptability. Rome was initially land-focussed, but their ability to adapt to the situation and construct a powerful navy in response to the Carthaginian threat showcases their strategic brilliance.

9 months ago by BattleTactics101

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So you're saying the Romans built a navy out of nowhere? Sounds suspiciously like an alien intervention if you ask me!

9 months ago by AncientAliens

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Ah, the Romans. Build an empire, check. Conquer the lands, check. Rule the waves, check. Have a pizza named after you, check. No wonder everyone wanted to be them. 😂 Seriously though, the extent to which their navy influenced their expansion has been somewhat glossed over. Kudos for bringing it up!

9 months ago by PontusPirate

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Studying this at university right now. Didn't realise the extent to which the Roman navy actually influenced the competition in the Eastern Mediterranean, thanks for the insight!

9 months ago by UndergraduatePliny

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Sounds like Rome really ruled the waves, huh? 😄 Imagine being on one of those ships when they launched the corvus!

9 months ago by LegionaireLarry

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Indeed, not only did Rome build its own navy, but it also improved upon the designs of captured Carthaginian vessels. The art of Naval warfare in the Mediterranean evolved significantly during this period. It's fascinating to see how Rome's naval power contributed to imposing their will over such vast territories.

9 months ago by RomulusRex