On this remarkable day, we commemorate a significant event that took place 41 years ago when the mayor of Rome, Ugo Vettere, and his counterpart in Carthage, Tunisia, Mr. Chedli Klibi, gathered in a spirit of goodwill to officially mark the conclusion of the Third Punic War. This agreement symbolically ended a conflict that began with the destruction of Carthage over 2,132 years ago. The signing occurred on the anniversary of Carthage’s defeat, making it a poignant moment in history.
During the era of the Roman Republic, the Second Punic War had wrought havoc on the Italian Peninsula. Led by the formidable Carthaginian general Hannibal Barca, this conflict ended with terms that were intended to establish Carthage’s tribute—something Barca had long desired. However, the Romans viewed the war through a lens of survival, believing it was a matter of supremacy or obliteration. The terms negotiated were merely a strategic pause for the Roman army and navy to regain their strength.
The Third Punic War, however, remained unresolved as the Roman Senate decreed the total destruction of Carthage, leading to the repopulation of the region and the establishment of a Roman city atop the ruins. To this day, a curse was laid upon anyone of Carthaginian descent who dared to return. Fast forward to the present, and Italy and Tunisia enjoy a robust and cooperative relationship.
In addition to this historic agreement, today also marks several other uplifting events:
Eight years ago, at Super Bowl LI, Tom Brady and the New England Patriots made history by orchestrating the largest comeback in Super Bowl history, securing Brady’s fifth Super Bowl title. This thrilling game, popularly dubbed “28–3,” was the first Super Bowl to be decided in overtime, showcasing the incredible spirit of competition. Atlanta initially surged ahead with three consecutive touchdowns, leading 21–3 at halftime and extending their lead to 28–3 midway through the third quarter. Yet, the Patriots rallied, scoring 25 unanswered points to tie the game in the final moments of regulation. In overtime, they seized the opportunity, driving down the field to score the decisive touchdown.
Throughout this unforgettable match, over 30 Super Bowl records were either broken or matched, including standout performances by Patriots running back James White and quarterback Tom Brady, who set records for completed passes, attempts, and passing yards. Brady’s remarkable achievement of being named Super Bowl MVP for the fourth time at the age of 39 added to his legacy.
Moreover, we reflect on the opening of the magnificent Hermitage Museum, which occurred 174 years ago today in the historic Winter Palace of the Russian Tsar. Today, this museum stands as the largest in the world, housing an impressive collection of 3 million works, including numismatic treasures. Originally established during Catherine the Great’s reign, it was initially a space for personal enjoyment among the aristocracy. Named the Hermitage, alluding to the word “hermit,” it has since become a treasure trove of art and culture for the public to admire.
