General Hannibal

Ancient Carthage: 247-183 BC

Hannibal was a great general from Carthage (modern day Tunis). Over a 118 year period, Rome and Carthage fought three wars called the Punic Wars for supremacy of the Mediterranean Sea. Hannibal fought in the second Punic War from 218-202 BC. At the age of 26 he was appointed commander-in-chief and began his dream of conquering and humiliating the Romans. He surprised the Romans by taking 40,000 men and 38 elephants through the treacherous Alps during the winter. He sustained heavy losses but arrived with 26,000 men and 1 elephant. Over the next 12 years, Hannibal won many battles against the Romans but eventually lost ground when he failed to gain reinforcements from home and from allies. Rome demanded that those sheltering him turn him in and eventually to avoid capture he poisoned himself in 183 BC.

A bust of Hannibal wearing this helmet can be seen in the National Museum of Naples.

Materials:

Paper version

Gray construction paper (12 in. x 18 in.) - 3 pieces

Tape (clear packing tape or duct tape)

Glue stick or glue

Scissors

Brass fasteners - 2

Duct tape version

Brown paper grocery bag - 1

Gray duct tape – 1 roll

Brass fasteners - 2

Scissors – bandage scissors or other sharp scissors work best for cutting duct tape

Other options:

Laminate construction paper - to extend the life of the hat (buy by the roll and buy good quality). Low quality laminate will separate from paper quickly.

Foam sheets – large (12 in. x 18 in.) or by the roll (18 in. x 72 in.) Tape on the inside when possible, use transparent duct tape on exterior when necessary.