The First Punic War, northern Italy, and Illyrian pirates, 264 to 219 b.c.e.

Archaeological excavations across the Mediterranean, including at Rome and Carthage, reveal significant insights into the social, economic, political, and cultural trends of the Roman Republic during its peak from 264 to 133 b.c.e. This period marked Rome's transition from consolidating control over peninsular Italy to expanding its power through a series of wars, notably the First Punic War starting in 264 b.c.e., which followed the destruction of the rebellious Etruscan city of Volsinii. The study highlights how Rome's political system remained stable under a patricio-plebeian consular nobility while its influence extended across the Mediterranean, shaping the foundation of a future empire.

Schultz, C. E., & Ward, A. M. (2019). The First Punic War, northern Italy, and Illyrian pirates, 264 to 219 b.c.e. A History of the Roman People, 120–136. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315192314-7