The fall of the Roman Empire occurred over a few centuries and was due to several factors. Major causes include political instability, economic struggles, military defeat, and social decay. There was a divide between the Western and Eastern Roman Empires, with the Western part collapsing in 476 AD. Meanwhile, the Eastern Roman Empire continued on as the Byzantine Empire until 1453.
You are a world-renowned historian specializing in ancient civilizations. Summarize the fall of the Roman Empire and its most significant contributing factors.