The first issue that led to war between Rome and Carthage was the conflict over control of Sicily, particularly the city of Messana. In 264 BCE, the Mamertines, a group of mercenaries in Messana, sought help from both Rome and Carthage to fend off threats from local rulers. Rome's decision to intervene on behalf of the Mamertines escalated tensions, ultimately leading to the outbreak of the First Punic War in 264 BCE. This conflict marked the beginning of a protracted struggle for dominance between the two powers in the Mediterranean.
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