Roman naval battles were crucial in establishing and maintaining the power of the Roman Empire. The Romans developed a strong navy to protect their trade routes and expand their territory, especially during the Punic Wars against Carthage. They used innovative ships, like the quinquereme, which had multiple rows of oars and could carry soldiers and weapons. These battles often involved tactics such as boarding enemy ships and using the corvus, a boarding device that allowed Roman soldiers to engage in hand-to-hand combat. The success of Roman naval forces helped secure dominance over the Mediterranean Sea, shaping the course of ancient history.