What significant battle did Scipio Africanus win to defeat Hannibal?

Scipio Africanus achieved a pivotal victory against Hannibal at the Battle of Zama in 202 BCE, effectively bringing the Second Punic War to a conclusion in favor of Rome. This battle is significant for several reasons. It marked the first time that Hannibal, known for his tactical genius and previously undefeated record in battle, faced a substantial defeat. Scipio's strategic planning and understanding of Hannibal's tactics allowed him to exploit weaknesses in the Carthaginian formation.

At Zama, Scipio utilized a combination of light and heavy infantry, effectively encouraging the skilled Roman cavalry to outmaneuver their Carthaginian counterparts. The outcome of this battle was crucial, not just for the immediate defeat of Hannibal, but it also symbolized Rome's emergence as a dominant power in the Mediterranean region. The victory at Zama resulted in the end of the war and led to harsh terms for Carthage, fundamentally shifting the balance of power in favor of Rome for years to come.