California Teacher Credentialing Examination (CSET) Practice Test

The collapse of the Western Roman Empire can be closely tied to the phenomenon of barbaric invasions, which had a profound and direct impact on the empire's stability. During the late ancient period, various groups such as the Visigoths, Vandals, and Huns began to invade Roman territories. These invasions not only resulted in military conflicts but also contributed to the destabilization of regions previously held by Rome.

As the empire faced these external pressures, its military resources were stretched thin, making it increasingly difficult to protect its borders. The invasions led to the sack of cities, the loss of territory, and ultimately, the breakdown of Roman administrative control. This external threat played a critical role in the empire's inability to maintain order and cohesion, which were essential for its survival.

While internal revolts, religious conversions, and trade disputes were also significant challenges, the immediate and violent nature of the barbaric invasions created an urgent crisis that could not be resolved through internal reforms or negotiations, leading directly to the empire's downfall.