The Third Punic War (149-146 BCE) was the final conflict between the ancient powers of Rome and Carthage. It arose from ongoing tensions after the previous two Punic Wars, particularly due to Rome's fear of Carthage's resurgence. The war began when Rome declared war on Carthage, leading to a prolonged siege of the city. The war concluded with the complete destruction of Carthage in 146 BCE. Roman forces, led by Scipio Aemilianus, captured the city after a brutal siege. Following its fall, the territory of Carthage was transformed into the Roman province of Africa, marking a significant expansion of Roman power in the Mediterranean.