Belisarius vs Hasdrubal the Fair

Belisarius led a Byzantine expedition to North Africa against the Vandal Kingdom. He defeated King Gelimer at the Battle of Ad Decimum and captured Carthage, restoring Roman control over the province after a century of Vandal rule.

Belisarius defended Rome against a siege by the Ostrogothic army under King Vitiges. Despite being outnumbered, he held the city for over a year using defensive tactics and sorties, until reinforcements arrived. This prolonged the war but preserved Byzantine control.

Belisarius captured the Ostrogothic capital of Ravenna through a combination of siege and deception. He accepted the surrender of King Vitiges and the Gothic nobility, effectively ending the first phase of the Gothic War and restoring Italy to the Empire.

Emperor Justinian recalled Belisarius from Italy due to political intrigues and suspicions of his ambition. Belisarius was stripped of his command and his wealth was confiscated, though he was later restored to favor. This ended his active role in the reconquest.

Hasdrubal the Fair founded the city of New Carthage (Cartagena) on the southeastern coast of Spain. This city became the main Carthaginian base in Iberia, serving as a military and economic hub for the Barcid empire.

Hasdrubal negotiated a treaty with Rome establishing the Ebro River as the boundary between Carthaginian and Roman spheres of influence in Iberia. This agreement temporarily stabilized relations but later became a flashpoint for the Second Punic War.

Hasdrubal the Fair was assassinated by a Celtic slave in his own camp. His death elevated Hannibal Barca to command of Carthaginian forces in Spain, setting the stage for the Second Punic War.