The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire
This worksheet explores the complex factors contributing to the decline and eventual fall of the Western Roman Empire, suitable for Grade 12 Social Studies students.
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The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Use complete sentences and provide specific examples where applicable.
1. Which of the following is NOT generally considered a major contributing factor to the fall of the Western Roman Empire?
Economic instability and inflation
Over-expansion and difficulty in defending borders
The rise of a powerful, unified Germanic empire
Political instability and frequent changes in leadership
2. The division of the Roman Empire into Eastern and Western halves was formalized by Emperor in 395 CE.
3. The Battle of in 378 CE, where the Goths decisively defeated the Roman army, is often seen as a turning point in the decline of the Western Roman Empire.
4. Explain how the reliance on mercenary soldiers (often Germanic tribes) contributed to the weakening of the Roman military.
5. The Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire) fell at the same time as the Western Roman Empire.
True
False
Match the term with its description.
6. Barbarian Invasions
a. The last Western Roman Emperor
7. Diocletian
b. A period of political instability and military threats
8. Romulus Augustulus
c. Emperor who divided the empire into a tetrarchy
9. Analyze the role of internal factors (e.g., political corruption, social inequality, economic decline) versus external factors (e.g., barbarian invasions) in the fall of the Western Roman Empire. Which set of factors do you believe was more significant, and why?