Economic Problems and the Fall of Rome
About This Worksheet
This worksheet explores the economic issues that contributed to the fall of the Roman Empire, encouraging students to understand and analyze historical sources and evidence.
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Economic Problems and the Fall of Rome
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Introduction to Economic Problems in Ancient Rome
Source A: Excerpt from a Roman historian
'The empire struggled with heavy taxation, inflation, and a decline in trade, which drained the wealth of the state and its citizens.' Provenance: Written by Tacitus, a Roman historian, around 100 AD.
The Impact of Economic Decline
Source B: A letter from a Roman merchant
'As the economy worsened, trade routes became unsafe, and merchants struggled to sell their goods. The value of money decreased, making everyday life more difficult.' Provenance: Written by a merchant in Rome, circa 200 AD.
Different Views on Economic Decline
Historian View: A modern analysis
'Economic decline was one of the key factors in the collapse of the Western Roman Empire, as it caused social unrest, weakened the military, and reduced the empire’s ability to sustain itself.' Provenance: Modern historian specializing in Ancient Rome.
Summary and Reflection
Review the sources and your own knowledge to answer: To what extent do you agree that economic problems were a main cause of the fall of Rome?
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Details
- Created
- 1/1/2026
- Updated
- 1/1/2026
- Type
- worksheet