What factors contributed to the Downfall of Rome?

 Can an Empire survive without a

stable form of government? 

Why did the Eastern Roman Empire survive after the fall?

Polytheistic But tolerant of other religions Rome takes over Judaea.

Judaism (Jews) reside hereTurns into Christianity.

Christianity is a world religion, A “Western” religion The largest world religion today (about 2 billion)

It is based on belief that Jesus of Nazareth is the Christ (Messiah) & the “Son of God.”

Spread the teachings of Christianity His preaching was controversial.

Some saw him as a revolutionaryFinally turned over to Rome for crucifixion.

Jesus not the only Christian Persecuted.All Christians face persecution.

Christianity grows anyway.Christianity and its followers were too

strong.Rome adapts ChristianityConstantine (1st Christian Emperor)

The Spread of ChristianityThe Spread of ChristianityThe Spread of ChristianityThe Spread of Christianity

Last of good or peaceful emperors diesCivil War breaks outWeak rulers Invasions

These uncertain times cause the economy to decline again

Plague

Diocletian Broke Rome into 4 parts. Each had their own leader Diocletian’s military control allowed him to be

the leader of the four units. Constantine

Expanded on Diocletian’s reforms Made new capital (Constantinople) AKA New

Rome Reforms

Focus on military and public service Used a lot of money Economy not looking good

Invasion by other Germanic Tribes Into Western Rome

Christianity weakened military virtues Lead poisoning through water lead to a

mental decline in population Plague wiped out 1/10 of population Did not advance technologically Political instability

Went through many rulers.. Not effective

Western Rome Falls apart Eastern Rome still stands

Evolves into Byzantine Empire (modern Russia)

Justinian was the Emperor Wanted to re-establish the empire But died suddenly Coded Roman laws After his death his empire is taken over by

Islamic tribes