The Battle of the Bagradas River was a battle in 239 BC (or possibly 240 BC) between Hamilcar Barca of Carthage and rebel mercenaries and Libyans. It marked Carthage's first major victory in the Mercenary War. For the battle fought in 255 BC during the First Punic War, see Battle of Tunis.
Hamilcar Barca was called out of retirement to replace Hanno the Great, following his embarrassing defeat at Utica. Intent on retaking the town, Hamilcar began moving his troops across the beach where they were quickly surrounded by a horde of insurgents from the city, as well as professional soldiers from a nearby castle they were passing. Charging his war elephants around the insurgent horde, Hamilcar was able to reach a nearly undefended Utica.
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