The conflict that saw the famous military leader Hannibal crossing the Alps was the Second Punic War, fought between Rome and Carthage from 218 to 201 BCE. Hannibal, a brilliant Carthaginian general, is renowned for his audacious strategy during this war, particularly his challenging journey across the Alps with war elephants to invade Italy. This maneuver allowed him to surprise Roman forces and achieve several significant victories, including the Battle of Cannae in 216 BCE. Hannibal's tactics and leadership are studied in military history, illustrating the complexities of warfare and the strategies that can lead to both success and eventual failure in the quest for dominance.