The Decline of the Roman Empire

The decline of the Roman Empire was a gradual process caused by a combination of factors. Internal problems included political instability, economic troubles, and military weakness. External pressures came from invasions by barbarian groups like the Visigoths and Vandals. Additionally, the empire became too large to manage effectively, and social changes created divisions within Roman society. Over time, these issues weakened the empire’s ability to defend itself and maintain stability. The fall is generally marked by the sack of Rome in 476 AD, signaling the end of the Western Roman Empire and the beginning of medieval Europe.