264 BCEReputable sourceWell documented
The First Punic War Begins
On the timeline · around 264 BCE ·
What happened
Rome and Carthage went to war over Sicily after both were drawn into a dispute at Messana. The long conflict (264–241 BCE) was fought on land and, decisively, at sea, forcing Rome to build its first major navy.
Why it matters
Victory gave Rome its first overseas province and opened a century-long struggle with Carthage for control of the western Mediterranean.
Sources
- World History Encyclopedia. First Punic War · Reputable source