What did Carthage do to make Rome hate them so much?
Carthage's destruction was an act of Roman aggression motivated as much by vengeance for previous battles as by avarice for the rich farming lands surrounding the city. The Carthaginian loss was complete and devastating, creating terror and horror in Rome's adversaries and allies alike.
Why did the Punic Wars start?
The direct cause of the war was the conflict over the sovereignty of Messana, an independent Sicilian city-state (modern Messina). Carthage and Rome went to war in 264 BC, beginning the First Punic War.
Result: Roman victory, destruction of Carthage
Date: 264 BC – 146 BC