The Battle of Zama: Jugurtha's Last Stand

🔴The Battle of Zama was a significant event in the Jugurthine War, as it marked a turning point in Rome's campaign against Jugurtha.

🏰Zama was a well-defended city, making it difficult for the Romans to capture despite their efforts.

💔Both sides suffered heavy losses during the battle, with neither achieving a clear victory.

🏞️The terrain and familiarity with the local area gave Jugurtha an advantage in his guerrilla campaign against the Romans.

⏰The campaign of 109 BC was the bloodiest of the war so far, with mixed results for both sides.

What was the significance of the Battle of Zama in the Jugurthine War?

—The Battle of Zama marked a turning point in Rome's campaign against Jugurtha, as it demonstrated the difficulty of capturing well-defended cities and the effectiveness of Jugurtha's guerrilla tactics.

Why was capturing Zama challenging for the Romans?

—Zama had formidable defenses, and the Romans were unable to breach them despite their efforts. The city's defenders also had the advantage of familiarity with the local terrain.

Did either side achieve a clear victory in the Battle of Zama?

—No, both sides suffered heavy losses, and the battle ended without a clear victor.

How did the terrain and familiarity with the local area benefit Jugurtha?

—The terrain and Jugurtha's knowledge of the local area allowed him to effectively use guerrilla tactics, making it difficult for the Romans to engage in a decisive battle.

What were the results of the campaign in 109 BC?

—The campaign of 109 BC was the bloodiest of the war so far, with mixed results for both sides. While the Romans achieved some victories and gained a foothold inside Numidia, Jugurtha continued to evade capture or a decisive defeat.

17:42Consul Metellus abandons the siege of Zama after being unable to breach its formidable defenses.

15:59Jugurtha launches an assault on the Roman siege lines outside of their camp.

14:28Jugurtha attacks Metellus' main camp, but is driven back after heavy losses.

11:45Metellus resumes the assault on Zama's walls, but is repelled by the well-prepared defenders.

09:29Metellus brings his army to Zama and begins the siege.

05:01The Romans march into the open plains, and Jugurtha's plan to trap them is revealed.

02:47Metellus captures the town of Vaga and establishes a major logistical base in Numidia.

00:00Jugurtha plans his takeover of the Kingdom of Numidia, leading to the epic clash with Metellus.