In this Grade 6 lesson from Pengi Social Studies, students examine the internal and external causes behind the decline and fall of the Western Roman Empire. Students then evaluate Rome's lasting contributions to the modern world, exploring how Roman achievements in law, Latin language, engineering, and architecture continue to shape society today.
Section 1
The Fall of the Western Empire
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By 476 C.E., the Western Roman Empire collapsed due to internal weakness (corruption, economic crisis) and external pressure (barbarian invasions).
While the West fell, the Eastern half continued as the Byzantine Empire.
Section 2
Legacy of Law and Language
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Rome’s greatest legacy is Law. Concepts like natural law, justice, and "innocent until proven guilty" shape modern legal systems.
Rome's language, Latin, evolved into the Romance languages (Spanish, French, Italian) and influenced English vocabulary, especially in science and government.
Section 3
Legacy of Engineering and Architecture
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Romans were master engineers. They used concrete to build enduring structures like the Colosseum and the Pantheon (famous for its dome).
They also built aqueducts to carry fresh water to cities and a massive network of paved roads that connected the empire. These engineering feats set the standard for centuries.
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Section 1
The Fall of the Western Empire
###
By 476 C.E., the Western Roman Empire collapsed due to internal weakness (corruption, economic crisis) and external pressure (barbarian invasions).
While the West fell, the Eastern half continued as the Byzantine Empire.
Section 2
Legacy of Law and Language
###
Rome’s greatest legacy is Law. Concepts like natural law, justice, and "innocent until proven guilty" shape modern legal systems.
Rome's language, Latin, evolved into the Romance languages (Spanish, French, Italian) and influenced English vocabulary, especially in science and government.
Section 3
Legacy of Engineering and Architecture
###
Romans were master engineers. They used concrete to build enduring structures like the Colosseum and the Pantheon (famous for its dome).
They also built aqueducts to carry fresh water to cities and a massive network of paved roads that connected the empire. These engineering feats set the standard for centuries.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter