Page "Battle of Cannae" Paragraph 14

The Carthaginian army was a combination of warriors from numerous regions.

Along with the core of 8, 000 Libyans, 8, 000 Iberians, 16, 000 Gauls ( 8, 000 were left at camp the day of battle ) and around 5, 500 Gaetulian infantry.

Hannibal's cavalry also came from diverse backgrounds.

He commanded 4, 000 Numidian, 2, 000 Iberian, 4, 000 Gallic and 450 Liby-Phoenician cavalry.

Finally, Hannibal had around 8, 000 skirmishers consisting of Balearic slingers and mixed nationality spearmen, bringing Hannibal's army to a total of around 47, 950.

All of these specific groups brought their respective strengths to the battle.

The uniting factor for the Carthaginian army was the personal tie each group had with Hannibal.