The Romans crossed the Po, with severe losses (223), and defeated the Insubres.

After two more victories in the following year (222) the consul Cn, Scipio captured Mediolanum, the capital of the In- subres, and Comum.

To strengthen their power the Romans founded the fortresses of Placentia, Cremona, and Mutina.

The military road tc Spoletium was extended across the Apennines to the Adri- atic Sea, and along the coast to Ariminum (ViaFlaminia).

Further measures for the firmer establishment of their power in Cisalpine Gaul were interrupted by the Causes : Envy of the Romans, excited by the new prosperity of Carthage, springing from her recent acquisitions in Spain, and the efforts of the party of the Barcse to take revenge on Rome.