✅   The Cannae Problem

History

It's August 2, 216 BCE. The Roman army stands in formation under the blistering Italian sun. Eight legions strong—the largest force Rome has ever fielded—nearly 80,000 men await the order to advance. Across the plain at Cannae stands Hannibal's army, outnumbered almost two-to-one. The Roman commanders, Consuls Varro and Paullus, feel confident. How could they not? They've assembled the greatest concentration of Roman military might in history specifically to crush this Carthaginian invader who has plagued Italy for two years.

joanwestenberg.com     May 02, 2025