The Fall of the Roman Empire (476 AD)

The Fall of the Roman Empire in 476 AD marked the end of ancient Rome's dominance when Germanic leader Odoacer deposed Emperor Romulus Augustulus. This pivotal moment signaled the collapse of centralized Roman rule in Western Europe, ushering in the Middle Ages. While the Eastern Empire (Byzantium) survived, the West fragmented into smaller kingdoms, altering Europe's political and cultural landscape. The fall resulted from overexpansion, economic troubles, and barbarian invasions. Its legacy includes the preservation of Roman law and Christianity, while its collapse reshaped European power structures for centuries.