What were the major factors that led to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE?

The fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE was the result of a complex interplay of various factors, both internal and external. Here are some of the major contributors:

1. Internal political instability: Frequent power struggles, civil wars, and the inability to maintain a stable succession of emperors weakened the empire from within.
2. Economic decline: Overreliance on slave labor, excessive taxation, and a decreasing trade volume led to economic stagnation and inflation.
3. Military challenges: The empire struggled to defend its vast borders against increasing barbarian invasions, particularly from Germanic tribes.
4. Overexpansion: The sheer size of the empire made it difficult to govern effectively and respond quickly to threats.
5. Cultural and social changes: The rise of Christianity and the decline of traditional Roman values contributed to social upheaval.
6. External pressures: Invasions by the Huns and other nomadic tribes from the East forced Germanic peoples to migrate into Roman territory, creating additional strain on resources and defenses.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the following sources:

• Ancient History Encyclopedia: Fall of the Western Roman Empire
• History.com: 8 Reasons Why Rome Fell