5th century

The 5th century refers to the years 401 to 500 AD, a time of significant change in Europe and beyond. It was marked by the decline of the Western Roman Empire, leading to political instability and invasion by various barbarian groups like the Goths and Vandals. This period saw the fall of Roman authority in the West and the transition into the early medieval era. Meanwhile, the Eastern Roman Empire, or Byzantine Empire, continued to thrive. Cultural and religious transformation also occurred, notably the spread of Christianity as a major religious force shaping European history.