The ancient Roman Republic and Carthage were unable to avoid war due to their competition for control of the Mediterranean region. This led to the three Punic Wars between 264-146 BC. The First Punic War was fought over control of Sicily, and resulted in Rome gaining a naval advantage. The Second Punic War saw Carthaginian general Hannibal invade Italy by crossing the Alps, defeating Roman armies for 15 years until being recalled to North Africa and defeated at Zama. Following its loss in the Second Punic War, the growing power and prosperity of Carthage again threatened Rome and led to the Third Punic War, ending with Carthage being completely destroyed in 146 BC.