Barcids

The first to rise to fame was Hamilcar, who fought against the Romans on Sicily during the First Punic War (264-241). He was surnamed Bârâq, which means "lightning" and is comparable to the Hellenistic royal title with the same meaning, Keraunos. Later, Hamilcar defeated rebel mercenaries and made a start with the conquest of parts of the Iberian peninsula.

He was succeeded by his son-in-law Hasdrubal the Fair, who in turn was succeeded by Hamilcar's son Hannibal Barca. During the Second Punic War (218-202), he and his brothers Hasdrubal and Mago were able of bringing Rome close to defeat.