The road network was an important factor in Roman warfare. The Appian Way was crucial for Rome' s advancement into the Samnite territories. Four years after this, Rome defeated the Samnites at the Second Samnite War. The end of this war was not the end of the Appian Way. The success of the initial construction of the Via Appia from Rome to Capua led to the continual extension of the Via Appia, crossing Italy from the West Coast to eventually end at the East Coast town of modern-day Brindisi by 264 BC. Rome built more than 80,000 miles of paved highways, which all led from Rome to some other place. Roads such as the Via Appia were built for military use and they were designed for military to move to any place they wanted to. Parts of the Appian way were guarded by legions , who would protect the road and other military units. Although military units used the Appian Way, it was also built for the Roman people to walk or travel on. The Romans had a very effective postal service called the Cursus Publicus. This postal service helped to deliver mail to all of the empire's provinces and to exchange messages between the provinces and the capital city. The Appian Way was very effective and efficient for several centuries. During the 14th century, it became the main route for the south of Italy. The road was restored by the Popes and Kings of Naples. It was used by Napoleon for his political and military activities.