Fall of the Western Roman Empire
476-09-04Rome, Italyhigh importance
In 476 CE, the Germanic chieftain Odoacer deposed the last Western Roman Emperor, Romulus Augustulus. This event traditionally marks the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the beginning of the Middle Ages in Europe. The causes included military overextension, economic troubles, political instability, and pressure from migrating peoples.
Key Takeaways
1
Marks the traditional end of the ancient world
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Multiple causes: military, economic, political
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Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire survived until 1453