How did Carthage become so powerful?

Answer 1

Carthage was a city-state that many people believe was the result of the seaman ship of the ancient Phoenicians. They were a trading and commerce people in the Eastern Mediterranean. Their explorations of the eastern part of the that sea had ample supplies and chances to gain wealth by trade, diplomacy and war if needed. Carthage was in a central part of the Mediterranean and gave them access to the wealth of Sicily and eastern Spain. With their wealth they were able to supplement their own military strength by hiring armies of mercenaries. Alliances with Greek colonies in the Mediterranean helped their power & wealth.

Answer 2

Through trade and their silver mines in Spain. They therefore had the money for a strong navy to protect their trade, and were able to hire a mercenary army to fight on land.