Alternative History: The Ptolemies join the First Punic War

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The Ptolemies join the First Punic War

Printed From: History Community ~ All Empires
Category: General History
Forum Name: Alternative History
Forum Discription: Discussion of Unorthodox Historical Theories & Approaches
URL: http://www.allempires.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=32204
Printed Date: 24-Apr-2024 at 16:52
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Topic: The Ptolemies join the First Punic War

Posted By: Delenda est Roma
Subject: The Ptolemies join the First Punic War
Date Posted: 12-Aug-2012 at 17:06

This situation is highly possible. The Ptolemaic empire was a maritime superpower during the First Punic War. Its naval might was very very large at the time. In history it was neautral and took neither side. Ptolemaic seapower operated in the Aegean, off Cyprus, Egypt, and Phoenicia, a voyage had actually been made to Spain! So how would the Ptolemaic empires alliance help either side?

Replies:

Posted By: Nick1986
Date Posted: 12-Aug-2012 at 19:22

If Egypt had the foresight to back the winning side (Rome) they would be a powerful ally. Perhaps the kingdoms would ultimately unite under Julius Caesar and Cleopatra?

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Me Grimlock not nice Dino! Me bash brains!

Posted By: Delenda est Roma
Date Posted: 12-Aug-2012 at 19:32

Um the time period is the 260's BC. Anyway the Ptolemies can join either side. Joining the Roman side could be just as much blessing as curse to Carthage. Most of Egypt's navy was in fact Phoenecian manned and built. Rome didn't actually win in an outright sense. It was a huge stalemate. Rome forced her citizens to provide private funds to build one more navy which was sucessful. With the navy it was possible to besiege the Punic strongholds. A treaty was then agreed on. Ptolemaic support would've been decisive either way.

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