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The End of the Roman Empire
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In the 5th century AD the Roman Empire again came under attack from outside. This time there were no soldier-emperors to save it. By now the emperors had become weak and powerless figures. They were dominated by their officials and generals. The invaders were Germanic barbarian tribesmen. They did not invade because they wanted to destroy the Roman Empire. They wanted to live in it and share in its wealth.
The Romans gave the barbarians lands in which to settle. In return the barbarians agreed to help defend the empire. This agreement worked for a time. But the barbarians began to take more land. By 476 AD they had taken over all of the western half of the empire. The eastern half survived for another 1,000 years. It became known as the Byzantine Empire.
(A) BARBARIANS
The barbarians who invaded the empire brought their families with them. They travelled in covered wagons or on foot. In return for being given land to farm, many of the men joined the Roman army.
(B) CHIEFTAIN
The power of a barbarian chieftain depended on his skill in battle. Only a leader who was successful in winning wealth and land for his people could expect them to be loyal to him.
(C) LANDOWNER
In return for giving some of his land to the barbarians, a landowner could expect lower taxes from the government. He also hoped the barbarians would protect his estates.
(D) ARMY OFFICER
Roman uniforms and armour had changed a lot since early imperial times.
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Previous:
Back
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Book:
The Romans
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Section:
The Romans
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Chapter:
The End of the Roman Empire
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