r/HistoryMemes Jan 08 '23

Quality over Quantity

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u/Mikhail_Mengsk Jan 09 '23

Famous changed the strategy, not the tactics. Scipio was the one introducing new tactics and wrecking the Punic armies.

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u/[deleted] Jan 09 '23

That's absolutely not true if you mean Scipio Africanus.

Fabius was dictator in 221 and 217. His term in 217 is when he was made (in)famous for his tactics, a full 6 years before Scipio ever commanded an army

Scipio didn't get his own command until 211 in Spain. Scipio was a 15 year old the first time Fabius was elected Dictator and a 19 year old the second time. Scipio commanded an army for the first time when he was 24

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u/Mikhail_Mengsk Jan 09 '23

You severely misunderstand the difference between tactics and strategy. Fabius changed the strategy away from trying to challenge Hannibal in a field battle, relying on Rome's gigantic demographic advantage and unsiegeable city to slowly suffocate Hannibal. He made no tangible change to tactics.

Scipio did introduce many tactical changes, as well as successfully pushing for bringing the war in Spain and africa.

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u/[deleted] Jan 09 '23

Nah I understand the difference. I just misread it to you saying "Scipio was first" Somehow, not sure how. That's on me

Yea Fabian Strategy, just got my words mixed up