Manpower in the Second Punic War

[Paullus Scipio]

James wrote:-

Many make reference to the strategic foresight of Scipio the Elder while on the mouth of the Rhone, in his decision to send the bulk of his army onto Spain even after he realized Hannibal was heading for Italy. That’s tenable, as this meant Carthage at least would not have a free hand in Spain, and as it turned out, it had far-reaching effects in Rome's favor. But it was the Senate’s decision to send the army to Spain in the first place, thus he was merely adhering to their orders. But his own decision to return to northern Italy indeed illustrates the flexibility of the Roman system, and long-term strategy would be the hall-mark of Roman direction throughout the war.

...as I pointed out in response to your previous post one advantage the Romans had was the sagacity of the Senate (which rarely put a foot wrong Strategically in the War, and gave Roman commanders the luxury of unity and support, save the disagreement over 'Fabian' non-engagement tactics), whereas the Barcids and Hannibal did not have the same support from Carthage...indeed had many enemies there.
The Scipios were clever commanders too, and Rome suffered a cruel blow with their deaths......

Thus, paradoxically, it was because of the rising of the Boii and Insubres, leading to their delay, that helped Rome in the long run with the war in Spain.

...and there would be many more such paradoxes as the war see-sawed back and forth...which is one of the reasons study of it is so fascinating !! D ........my personal favourite ! 8) 8)

Your post here is excellent and well worthy of a Laudes.. D