The ancient civilization that competed with Rome during the Punic Wars was Carthage. Located in present-day Tunisia, Carthage was a powerful maritime trade empire, and its military prowess was exemplified by its famous general, Hannibal. The Punic Wars, fought between 264 and 146 BCE, comprised three major conflicts primarily triggered by competition for control over trade routes and territorial disputes in the Mediterranean. The wars ultimately led to the destruction of Carthage and solidified Rome's position as the dominant power in the Mediterranean, greatly influencing subsequent Roman expansion and governance.