Fall of Roman Empire Review

Flashcards covering the key terms and concepts of the Roman Empire.

Inflation

A rapid increase in prices and a decrease in the purchasing value of money. This occurs when money loses its value, leading to higher costs for goods and services.

Political Problems in the Roman Empire

Characterized by poor leadership from emperors and widespread corruption among officials, leading to instability and inefficiency in governance.

Social Problems in the Roman Empire

Included tax evasion, a decline in education, and an increased reliance on slavery, which created social stratification and unrest.

Economic Problems in the Roman Empire

Encompassed destroyed farmlands, unsafe trade routes, food shortages (hunger), and inflation, all of which destabilized the economy.

Military Problems in the Roman Empire

Stemmed from the government's inability to pay Roman soldiers, leading to the recruitment of unloyal Germanic warriors into the army, weakening its defense capabilities.

Diocletian

An emperor who attempted to maintain control over the Roman Empire by dividing it into four parts. He ceased working with the Senate and ruled as an absolute ruler.

Diocletian’s Reforms

New rules and regulations implemented by Diocletian that were largely ignored due to his lack of power to enforce them effectively.

Constantine

The first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity. He reunited the Western and Eastern Roman Empires, marking a significant turning point in Roman history.

Constantine’s Orders

Established a system where sons were required to follow their father’s occupation, contributing to a more rigid social structure.

The End of the Western Roman Empire

Culminated when Germanic tribes invaded Rome and overthrew the last Western emperor, leading to the empire's collapse.

Western Europe after the Roman Empire

Former Roman lands were claimed by Germanic kingdoms, and the Roman Catholic Church emerged as a unifying and powerful force in the region.

Justinian

An Eastern Roman emperor who reconquered lost lands, rebuilt the capital city of Constantinople, and preserved Roman cultural and legal traditions.

Roman Catholic Church

A Christian church led by the Pope, who claimed authority over all churches. Services were conducted in Latin.

Eastern Orthodox Church

A Christian church where the emperor held authority over church officials. Services were conducted in Greek and Russian.

Byzantine Empire

Also known as the Eastern Roman Empire, it lasted for over 1000 years and eventually fell due to civil wars and invasion by the Ottoman Turks.

Aqueducts

Artificial channels or waterways constructed to bring water into cities, improving sanitation and water supply.

Roman Influence

Evident in the widespread use of the Latin alphabet (in Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, and Romania) and its lasting impact on modern law and government, such as the American republic.

Roman Architecture

Characterized by distinctive styles that continue to influence public buildings today, and the innovative use of concrete in construction.

Mercenaries

Soldiers hired to serve in a foreign army, often lacking loyalty to the empire they are fighting for.

Absolute Ruler

A ruler who possesses total power and authority over a country or empire, without constitutional limitations.

Nomads

Communities of people who move from one place to another, typically in search of resources or grazing land.

Plunder

To loot or take things by force, especially during a conflict or invasion.

Justinian’s Code

A comprehensive collection of laws covering various aspects of life, including marriage, slavery, property ownership, women's rights, and criminal justice.

Pope

The leader of the Roman Catholic Church, holding authority over bishops and Christian emperors.

Patriarch

The leader of the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Mosaic

A picture or decorative design made from tiny pieces of colorful stone, glass, or ceramic.

Bas-Relief

A type of sculpture in which slightly raised figures stand out against a flat background.

Oratory

The art of public speaking, which was an important means of persuasion for Roman politicians.