Samnites

The Samnites were an ancient Italic people who lived in the region of Samnium, in central Italy, from around the 4th to 2nd centuries BCE. Known for their warrior culture, they frequently clashed with the Roman Republic during the Samnite Wars, which were significant conflicts in the early history of Rome. The Samnites were skilled in guerilla warfare and had a fierce sense of independence, but ultimately, they were defeated by Rome. Their defeat contributed to Rome's expansion throughout Italy and marked the decline of independent Italic cultures. The Samnites left a legacy in Roman history and culture.