Chapter 11History & Culture

Why did the Roman Empire fall?

Not one cause. Overextension, currency debasement, corruption, plague, climate shifts, and 'barbarian' pressure from tribes fleeing further pressure. The Western half fell in 476; the Eastern (Byzantine) lasted until 1453.

Follow-up questions

Did Rome really fall or transform?

Historians increasingly say transformed — many institutions, laws, and languages continued under new rulers.

How long did it last?

Depending on the starting point: over 1000 years for the empire, nearly 2000 counting Byzantium.

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