Consider what these four documents tell us about the reasons why the Roman Empire fell.

Question

A. List at least three reasons that the documents mentioned for why the Roman Empire fell.
B. Out of the three reasons that you list, pick one that you feel had the biggest influence on the collapse of Rome. Explain why you feel that this reason had a bigger influence than the other two.

Answer 1

A.
1. Economic issues, such as high inflation, debasement of currency, and heavy taxation.
2. Military problems, including invasions by outside tribes, lack of sufficient resources to defend the empire, and internal power struggles within the military.
3. Political instability, with frequent changes in leadership, corruption, and a weakening central government.

B. The reason I feel had the biggest influence on the collapse of Rome is the military problems. The constant invasions by outside tribes, lack of sufficient resources to defend the empire, and internal power struggles within the military weakened Rome's ability to protect its borders and maintain control over its territories. This led to significant territorial losses and contributed to the erosion of the empire's power and influence. The military problems ultimately laid the foundation for the eventual collapse of the Roman Empire as it was unable to withstand the external threats and internal divisions that plagued its armed forces.