Bellwork: Characteristics of Roman Empire Danger Minilesson: The Fall of the Roman Empire (Jenga) Work Time: Free Write Homework: Current Event Cartoon due Monday Chapter 6.1 and 6.2 worksheets
Diocletian Reforms the Empire A.D. 284 Emperor Diocletian restores order, divides empire in two Two emperors in Greek-speaking East, Latin-speaking West In A.D. 305 Diocletian retires, rivals compete for power
Constantine Moves the Capital Constantine becomes emperor of Western Empire in A.D. 312 Seizes Eastern Empire in A.D. 324; moves Roman capital to Byzantium Byzantium eventually renamed Constantinople—city of Constantine
Constatntinople Rome
Political political office more trouble than it’s worth military interference in politics civil war and unrest division of an empire moving of capital to Byzantium
Social declining interest in public affairs low confidence in empire disloyalty, lack of patriotism, corruption differences between rich and poor declining population (disease and food shortage)
Economic poor harvests disruption of trade no more war treasure gold and silver drain inflation huge tax burden widening gap between rich and poor poverty in Western Empire
Military threat from northern European tribes low funds for defense problems recruiting Roman citizens mercenaries fight for $ only decline of patriotism and loyalty among soldiers
Free Write Which factors contributed most to the “Fall of Rome?” (consider politics, economics, social, and military—3minutes) Consider past units of study and our study of current events this year to identify trends that have negatively affected societies. (3 minutes)