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What caused the fall of Rome?

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Quick answer

The fall of Rome refers to the collapse of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE. It resulted from many pressures — invasions, economic trouble, political instability, and overexpansion — that gradually weakened the empire over centuries. The Western Roman Empire fell in 476 CE.

Key things to understand

  1. The Western Roman Empire fell in 476 CE.
  2. Causes were many: invasions, economic decline, and instability.
  3. Overexpansion strained its armies and finances.
  4. The Eastern (Byzantine) Empire survived for another 1,000 years.

People also ask

What caused the fall of Rome?
A mix of barbarian invasions, economic problems, political instability, and military overstretch over time.
When did Rome fall?
The Western Roman Empire is traditionally said to have fallen in 476 CE.
Did all of Rome fall in 476?
No — only the western half; the eastern Byzantine Empire continued until 1453.