1. Ancient Rome and the Rise of Christianity
Section 5: The Long Decline
Witness History Audio: The Exhausted Empire
The Roman Empire Divides
After the death of Marcus Aurelius, the political, social and economic aspects of the Roman Empire were all unstable. Emperor Diocletian divided the empire in two and appointed Maximian as emperor of the western provinces. Later, Constantine made Constantinople the grand capital of the eastern empire.
Notes: Listen to the Witness History audio. Then read aloud the main idea for each subheading in this section and show the related visuals.
After listening to the Witness History audio, ask, “According to Salvian, how did Romans living in areas overrun by the barbarians feel about barbarian conquest?” (They were glad to be free from Roman rule.) “What are four problems facing Rome mentioned in the introduction?” (oppressive government, corrupt upper class, weak economy, invaders from north and east.) “What does the image suggest about Rome’s power?” (Sample: That the empire is no longer able to defend itself)
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2. Ancient Rome and the Rise of Christianity
Section 5: The Long Decline
Invaders Threaten the Roman Empire
When Huns from central Asia invaded Eastern Europe, the Germanic people there, in turn, invaded the Roman empire. The Huns soon followed and contributed to the loss of the western provinces.
Many Problems Cause Rome to Fall
The invasions were only a part of the story of Rome’s decline. The Roman government had lost the support of many Romans; taxes and slave labor undermined the middle class and farmers; and patriotism dwindled.
Notes: Listen to the Witness History audio. Then read aloud the main idea for each subheading in this section and show the related visuals.
After listening to the Witness History audio, ask, “According to Salvian, how did Romans living in areas overrun by the barbarians feel about barbarian conquest?” (They were glad to be free from Roman rule.) “What are four problems facing Rome mentioned in the introduction?” (oppressive government, corrupt upper class, weak economy, invaders from north and east.) “What does the image suggest about Rome’s power?” (Sample: That the empire is no longer able to defend itself)
QuickTake Section Quiz
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QuickTake Chapter Test
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3. Ancient Rome and the Rise of Christianity: Section 5
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4. Ancient Rome and the Rise of Christianity: Section 5
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