Mamertines

The Mamertines were a group of Campanian mercenaries who, after serving in the army of Syracuse in Sicily, seized the city of Messana (modern-day Messina) around 288 BC. The name "Mamertine" derives from the Oscan deity Mamers, a god of war, indicating their mercenary origins. Following their seizure of Messana, they established themselves as the rulers of the city and its surrounding territory, engaging in piracy and raiding.

Their control over Messana proved to be a source of instability in the region. The Mamertines' aggressive actions eventually led to conflict with Carthage and Syracuse. In 264 BC, facing a combined siege by Hiero II of Syracuse and the Carthaginians, the Mamertines appealed for help from Rome. This appeal marked a pivotal moment, as Rome's intervention in Sicily directly led to the First Punic War between Rome and Carthage. The Mamertines, despite their initial appeal, ultimately became a pawn in the larger conflict, with Rome eventually taking control of Messana. Their legacy is primarily tied to their role in instigating Roman involvement in Sicily and the subsequent Punic Wars.