The Punic Wars were a series of three wars fought between Rome and Carthage. They were fought for control of the Mediterranean region and for economic dominance. The First Punic War (264-241 BCE) was fought mostly at sea, with Rome eventually emerging as the victor. The Second Punic War (218-201 BCE) was fought on land and sea and was won by Rome after the great Carthaginian general Hannibal was defeated. The Third Punic War (149-146 BCE) was a short and brutal conflict which ended in the complete destruction of Carthage. The wars were characterized by Rome's superior military organization and tactics, as well as their ability to build large fleets of ships. Rome's victory in the Punic Wars established them as the dominant power in the Mediterranean region.