1. The Fall of Rome

2. Crisis and Reforms Struggles for Power:
In one 50 year period, at least 26 Emperors reigned! (With only 1 dying from natural causes)
Economic and Social Problems:
Set-up of Feudal system (Middle Ages)

3. Emperor Diocletian DIVISION OF THE EMPIRE (284 CE)
Eastern and Western Empires split
Attempt to fix economic problems
Inflation: the rapid rise of prices

4. Emperor Constantine Tolerance of Christians
Before Constantine Christians were executed for their beliefs.
His tolerance encouraged the spread of Christianity throughout the Empire
New Eastern Capital
The Roman Empire’s capital is moved to Constantinople in the east
Even when the western empire falls, the eastern portion continued to survive and prosper

5. How did the invasion of the Huns weaken the Roman Empire?
Foreign Invasions
How did the invasion of the Huns weaken the Roman Empire?

6. The Decline and Fall of Rome
Military Causes
Germanic Invasions
Weakened Roman legions
Political Causes
Oppressive Government
Corrupt Officials
Divided Empire
Economic Cause
Heavy Taxes
Population decline
Social Causes
Erosion of Traditional values
Self-serving upper class
“Bread and Circuses”

7. Did Rome really fall?