The ____________ were fought between the Roman Empire and Carthage.

The Punic Wars were a series of three conflicts fought between the Roman Republic and the city-state of Carthage, stretching from 264 BCE to 146 BCE. These wars were pivotal in establishing Rome as a dominant power in the Mediterranean region. The term "Punic" derives from "Phoenician," referring to the ancestry of the Carthaginians. The wars included significant battles such as those at Cannae and Zama, which were crucial in influencing military tactics and the political landscape of the time.

The other choices refer to different historical events. Civil Wars pertain to internal conflicts within a state, such as Rome's own internal struggles. The Caesarian Wars would involve conflicts associated with Julius Caesar's campaigns, particularly in Gaul. The Persian Wars refer to the series of conflicts between the Greek city-states and the Persian Empire, which are entirely separate from the Roman-Carthaginian conflicts. Hence, the Punic Wars stands out as the correct answer because it specifically addresses the wars between these two significant ancient powers.