The leader I chose for my paper is Hannibal Barca, the General. Hannibal Barca was born in Carthage (present-day Tunisia) in approximately 247 B.C. He was the son of Carthaginian general Hamilcar Barca (Barca meaning "thunderbolt"). After Carthage's defeat by the Romans in the First Punic War in 241 B.C, Hamilcar devoted himself to improving both his and Carthage's fortunes. Hannibal much later said that when he came upon his father and begged to go with him, Hamilcar agreed and demanded that he swear that as long as he lived he would never be a friend of Rome (“Biography”, n.d., p. 1). Hannibal was best known for being arguably the best military general of all time. He was also known for leading the Carthaginian army and a team of elephants …show more content…
Hannibal vowed to be an enemy of Rome and set out to be their life-long enemy. He was described as possessing the same fire and bright look in his eyes as his father. He was described as having the same trick of countenance and features; the same spirit more skillful to meet opposition, to obey, or to command. The older soldiers believe they saw Hannibal as his father in his youth. In the end, when Rome wanted to arrest him, Hannibal fled and took his own life rather than conform to the commands of Rome. Other leadership characteristics the notion that leaders are made, not born. s Hannibal possessed are ambitious, courageous, forward –looking, competent and intelligence. Hannibal exhibited these characteristics during his Alps crossing in inclement weather which was described as a remarkable military achievement. He was elected as a chief magistrate, where he spent several years in Carthaginian politics. During his tenure, he instituted elections for military judges and changed terms of office from life to two-years. Hannibal’s leadership ability would fall under the function