Scipio Aemilianus: The Roman who finally destroyed Carthage

Publius Cornelius Scipio Aemilianus was born into one of Rome's most illustrious families, the Aemilii Paulii in 185/4 BC.

His birthright afforded him a privileged upbringing surrounded by influential figures and access to the best education.

His father was Lucius Aemilius Paullus Macedonicus, a distinguished general who defeated the Macedonian king Perseus at the Battle of Pydna. 

However, at some time during his childhood, he joined the powerful Scipii family. Specifically, he was adopted by his cousin, the eldest son of the famous Scipio Africanus.

It was common practice among noble Roman families to adopt in this way, especially when there were no male heirs, which appears to have been the case in this instance.

As a result, he became part of the broader Cornelii Scipiones lineage.  

He participated in his first campaign in 151 BC, joining his father Lucius Aemilius Paullus in Spain to suppress a rebellion.

We are told that during the campaign, Scipio displayed exceptional bravery and strategic acumen. In particular, his leadership skills became evident during the siege of Intercatia, where he played a pivotal role in securing victory for Rome.

By 147 BC, his reputation as a capable leader had grown significantly. 

The Third Punic War, which began in 149 BC, represented Rome's final and most decisive conflict with Carthage. Scipio Aemilianus played a critical role in this brutal war, leading the Roman forces against their long-standing rival.

At the onset, Carthage tried to appease Rome by surrendering hostages and weapons, but the Roman demand to abandon their city provoked a fierce Carthaginian resistance.

Scipio was first elected consul in 147 BC, and was appointed as the overall commander in 147 BC to bring the war to an end. 

Under Scipio's command, the Romans systematically isolated Carthage. With a force of approximately 50,000 men, he executed a relentless blockade, cutting off supplies and reinforcements to the besieged city.

In the spring of 146 BC, Scipio launched his final assault on Carthage. Roman forces breached the walls and entered the city and the ensuing battle was defined by intense street fighting with significant casualties on both sides.

It is estimated that over 50,000 Carthaginians were killed, and another 50,000 were taken as slaves. By the war's end, Carthage was utterly destroyed. 

The next major conflict in his life was the Numantine War, which took place in Hispania between 143 and 133 BC. It was a struggle between the Roman Republic and the Celtiberian city of Numantia, which had become a symbol of resistance against Roman domination.

Initially, Roman forces faced difficulties in subduing the Numantines, who employed guerrilla tactics and made effective use of their knowledge of the rugged terrain. 

Once more, Scipio Aemilianus was appointed consul for the second time and assumed command in 134 BC, determined to bring an end to the prolonged and frustrating conflict.

He arrived in Hispania with a force of 20,000 soldiers, well aware of the challenges that lay ahead. Firstly, he restored discipline among the Roman troops, which had waned under previous commanders.

Next, the Romans constructed a comprehensive siege around Numantia. With a ring of fortifications extending over nine kilometers, they effectively cut off all supply lines to the city.

The siege gradually weakened the Numantines, who faced starvation and disease. In the face of such overwhelming pressure, their spirit of resistance began to falter. 

Finally, in the spring of 133 BC, the beleaguered city finally surrendered. The aftermath was grim; thousands of Numantines were killed, and the survivors were sold into slavery.

Like Carthage before it, Numantia was razed to the ground. Scipio Aemilianus's success in the Numantine War solidified his reputation as one of Rome's most effective military leaders.  

In the political arena, he advocated for reforms aimed at stabilizing the Republic and addressing its growing issues.

Amidst his political aims, Scipio believed in the necessity of balancing military prowess with civic responsibility. Scipio pushed for the implementation of the Lex Militaris, a law that improved conditions for Roman soldiers.

This reform provided soldiers with better pay and equipment. Also, he utilized his position to support allies and build a network of political supporters. 

In addition, Scipio took a strong stance against corruption. He opposed the rampant bribery and misuse of power that plagued the Senate and other Roman institutions.

He led investigations and prosecutions of corrupt officials, earning both admiration and enmity from his peers, since his commitment to integrity sometimes placed him at odds with powerful senators. 

Scipio Aemilianus was a curious patron of the arts. He supported various writers, philosophers, and artists, fostering close relationships with prominent Greek scholars helped introduce and integrate Hellenistic ideas into Roman society.

In particular, Scipio played a crucial role in the formation of the Scipionic Circle, a group of writers and thinkers who regularly gathered to discuss literature and philosophy.

This circle included notable figures such as the historian Polybius and the playwright Terence. In these meetings, they debated and explored ideas, contributing to the intellectual vigor of the period. 

Similarly, Scipio Aemilianus promoted the study of Greek language and culture. He believed that understanding Greek thought was essential for Roman statesmen and military leaders.

As a result, many young Romans began to study Greek texts, leading to a greater appreciation of Greek achievements in various fields.

According to ancient sources, Scipio Aemilianus's own intellectual curiosity set an example for others. He was well-versed in various subjects and often engaged in philosophical debates.

His particular admiration for Stoicism, a philosophy that emphasized rationality and self-control, reflected his personal beliefs and values. 

Scipio Aemilianus died in 129 BC under mysterious circumstances at his villa in Liternum, a location he often retreated to for peace and reflection.

On the night of his death, Scipio reportedly retired to bed after a normal day of activities. In the morning, he was found dead in his bed. Many believed he had been poisoned by one of his numerous enemies within Rome.

However, no conclusive evidence ever emerged to clarify the cause.