Roman culture had also changed. As central control declined, independent power centers formed across the western provinces. Wealthy cities became isolated, and local elites replaced imperial governance.
Some have speculated that lead poisoning from Rome’s water pipes contributed to its decline, but modern evidence indicates this was not a significant factor. In contrast, climatic changes during the late Roman period are recognized by historians as contributing factors in Rome’s long decline.
Edward Gibbon famously argued in “The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire” that the loss of civic virtue and the rise of Christianity played a role. While controversial, it highlights how many elements—social, political, military, and environmental—converged to bring about the fall of Rome.
We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.
