The Fall of Western Roman Empire & the Rise of Feudalism

What was one of the main economic causes of the collapse of the Western Roman Empire?

• Rapid population growth

• High inflation and currency devaluation

• Discovery of new trade routes

• Successful territorial expansion

Which Germanic tribes invaded the Western Roman Empire?

• Celts and Suebi

• Visigoths and Vandals

• Huns and Sarmatians

• Franks and Lombards

What happened to the last Roman emperor of the West?

• He was killed in a civil war

• He retired to exile in the East

• He was deposed by Odoacer

• He abdicated in favor of his successor

What characterized the period known as the Dark Ages?

• Development of a strong centralized government

• Increase in trade and technology

• Growth of Roman Empire influence

• Decentralization of power and urban decline

What role did the Catholic Church play during the Middle Ages?

• It acted as a central authority and stabilizer

• It promoted territorial expansion of Europe

• It eliminated the influence of local lords

• It destroyed the feudal system

What type of relationships predominated during feudalism?

• Absolute monarchy

• Direct democracy

• Agrarian communism

• Vassalage and mutual obligations

What was the basis of the economy during the Middle Ages?

• Industry and trade

• Agriculture and serf labor

• Technological innovation

• International trade

How was power organized in the feudal system?

• Through the autonomy of local lords

• Through a centralized government

• With the administration of a central bureaucracy

• Under the direction of an absolute emperor

What role did castles play during the Middle Ages?

• Fortifications and centers of local power

• Schools and universities

• Centers of trade and culture

• Recreational spots for the nobility