Part 4/9:
The Fall of Rome: A Case Study
The Roman Empire serves as a classical example that reflects these five factors. Rome's overexpansion and relentless military campaigns led to financial strain, contributing to high taxation and inflation. Furthermore, reliance on slave labor stifled innovation and overall economic mobility.
As resources dwindled, external pressures became critical. Invasions from barbarian tribes exploited Rome’s weaknesses, leading to civil strife and widespread distrust in leadership, ultimately resulting in the empire's division and, eventually, its decline by 476 AD. The significant social and economic inequality fostered unrest, a situation echoing current trends in the United States.