Marcus Atilius Regulus was a Roman general and statesman during the First Punic War, which lasted from 264 to 241 BCE. He is best known for his role in the Battle of Cape Ecnomus in 256 BCE, where he led the Roman fleet to a significant victory against the Carthaginians. Regulus was also notable for his military campaigns in North Africa. After his initial successes, Regulus was captured by the Carthaginians in 255 BCE. He was later sent back to Rome to negotiate a peace treaty but instead urged the Senate to continue the war. His steadfastness and eventual fate made him a symbol of Roman virtue and duty.