Hannibal's Second DecisionYou have
changed history! By attempting to step directly into your father's
position, you have accomplished a number of things. You have offended
your commanding officer, Hasdrubal, who has the right to command, by virtue
of his position as your father's second in command. You have offended
the men in your command, because you have not yet earned their respect,
and they cannot be certain whether they should trust you. By alienating
your countrymen, you have given hope to your enemies, who are always aware
of conditions in your camp, due to the comings and goings of traders and
spies. This dissension will make it much easier for you to be defeated,
and they may plan their attacks accordingly. Since Rome is currently
trying to decide whether to deal with you or the Gauls, they can turn their
attention to the Gauls, figuring that you will be "held off" by their frontier
allies. Remember in your future choices that Hannibal is clever and
sly, and seldom errs in his judgment. He will inevitably make the
choice that will earn him respect from his men, and cause his enemies to
despair. Scroll down to see the historically correct choice. Excellent choice! The
"real" Hannibal was respected by his men for attending to his duties with
energy, patience, and self-denial. He dressed plainly, did not indulge
himself in luxuries, and never expected to be exempt from the jobs of a
normal soldier. By doing so, his men saw him as a friend and equal,
which left them free to admire his energy, competence, and skill.
It was said that he was the first into battle, and the last to leave the
field, earning him respect for bravery and fighting prowess. He was
considered merciless to his enemies (which the Carthaginian soldier admired)
and very intelligent in his strategies and tactics. These behaviors
put him in excellent position when the army needed a new leader, because
he had not only the name of a leader, but the qualities of one, as well.
On to your next choice. Hasdrubal's death left the army
temporarily leaderless, but Hannibal was chosen by his men as a leader
they would willingly follow anywhere. He immediately began to expand
the Carthaginian presence in Iberia, actions which frequently brought him
into conflict with Roman garrisons and allies. While on an expedition, Hannibal
finds himself in the vicinity of a Roman force some 5 times larger than
his own. They pursue him to the banks of the River Tagus, which is
approximately 3 feet deep at this location. He could choose to stand
and fight, using the river at his back as an incentive to his men to fight
boldly. If his soldiers prove superior, the Romans will be unable
to outflank him. If the superior number of his enemy proves overwhelming,
he may still be able to withdraw his army across the river, though it will
probably cost many men to do so. Either way, he is anxious to engage
Roman forces soon, so that he can prove his ability. You are forced
with another major choice, and it is still early in your career as a General.
What did Hannibal do?