The First Punic War began over a silly dispute. The Mamertines, Italian mercenaries from Campania, attacked and took control of Messana (Messina) Sicily. They were soon defeated by Hiero, tyrant of Syracuse, and afterward appealed to Rome and Carthage for aid. The Carthaginian’s “helped” by placing a garrison there, which was not what the Mamertines were expecting. Angered by this offense, they requested a treaty with Rome. The Senate knew a treaty would mean war with Carthage so they debated long and hard before deciding to move forward.
After the first land skirmishes of the war, Rome realized that Carthage would not be a pushover and defeating them would depend on their ability to fight at sea. With that in mind, the Romans proceeded to build 100 fivers (quinqueremes) and 20 triremes during the winter of 261/0 B.C.