SCIPIO AFRICANUS THE ELDER
236 - 183 BC

Scipio's full name was Publius Cornelius Scipio. He was a Roman general.

He became Publius Cornelius Scipio Africanus in 201 BC, in honor of his military victories.

What victories?

In 202 BC, Scipio defeated Hannibal at the Battle of Zama, which concluded the Second Punic War.

202 BC Battle of Zama

Rome and Carthage at the Beginning
of the Second Punic War, 218 B.C.
Click to enlarge

Map of Italy and Vicinity at the
Beginning of the Second Punic War 218 BC

Battles of the Second Punic War 218-201 BC

This Scipio is called the Elder to distinguish him from Scipio Africanus the Younger, who fought in the Third Punic War.

Scipio Africanus the Elder had a son, Publius Scipio.
Publius Scipio adopted Scipio Aemilianus, who became Scipio Africanus the Younger. Thus, the younger Scipio was the adopted grandson of Scipio the Elder.

Map of Rome's Expansion 264-180 BC
Click to enlarge

2nd Century Expansion of the Roman Republic