Carthage, the great rival of Rome, emerged as one of the most influential civilizations of the ancient world. Located on the northern coast of Africa, in present-day Tunisia, Carthage's origins are steeped in both myth and history. According to legend, the city was founded by Queen Dido, a Phoenician exile fleeing her homeland of Tyre. This tale, immortalized by Virgil in the epic Aeneid, speaks to the enduring allure of Carthage as a place of resilience, ingenuity, and ambition.

Historically, Carthage was established around the 9th century BCE as a Phoenician colony. Its founders brought with them not only their maritime expertise but also their extensive knowledge of trade and diplomacy. Strategically situated along the Mediterranean, Carthage quickly evolved from a modest settlement into a thriving hub of commerce. Its harbors bustled with activity, hosting merchants and ships from across the ancient world. The city's wealth grew exponentially as it became a central player in the lucrative trade of goods such as textiles, metals, and exotic items like ivory and spices.

This economic prosperity laid the foundation for Carthage's political and military power. Governed by a system that balanced oligarchic and republican elements, the Carthaginian state was both efficient and adaptable. Its leadership recognized the importance of a strong navy, investing heavily in a fleet that would come to dominate the western Mediterranean. This maritime supremacy allowed Carthage to expand its influence to regions such as Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and parts of Spain.