The process of decline took place in three stages. First, there was a long time of turmoil known as the "crisis of the third century". During these years, the empire was beset by economic, military, and political problems.
Economic Decay:
Trade was disrupted by barbarian raids and by bands of pirates on Mediterranean sea lanes. Trade flowed over routes patrolled by Roman navies and armies. Treasuries were enriched by gold and silver collected as plunder; and the farms grew enough food to feed the population of the cities.
Inflation: increase in prices rapidly
Military Decay:
Tribes of northern barbarians called Goths repeatedly overran the legions guarding the Danube frontier. Asia minor was threatened by Persia. Roman soldiers now fought strictly for money, not for patriotism. They began to recruit barbarians who would accept lower pay. Loyalty in the barbarians was hard to find.
Political Decay:
Political office had once been considered an honor. In the 200's, political leaders began to loose money because they usually lost money because they were required to pay for costly circuses and baths out of their own money.
*DIOCLETIAN*:
A.D. 284, Diocletian, an army leader and son of a slave, became emperor.
- In A.D. 476, a barbarian king took over the rule of Rome
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