Question

select the correct answer.

the roman empire was split into eastern and western regions. what effect did this have on the western roman empire?

• it became the center of power in the west.
• christianity thrived as a new religion.
• trade with other nations increased.
• it became weak and vulnerable to attacks.

Explanation:

Analyze the historical context

The question asks about the effect that splitting the Roman Empire into eastern and western regions had on the Western Roman Empire.

Evaluate the options

• "It became the center of power in the west.": Incorrect. The Western Roman Empire did contain Rome, but power shifted heavily toward the wealthier Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire) with its capital in Constantinople.
• "Christianity thrived as a new religion.": Incorrect. While Christianity did grow, it was already established and became the state religion before the final collapse; this was not the direct political/military consequence of the split.
• "Trade with other nations increased.": Incorrect. The Western Roman Empire suffered from economic instability, disrupted trade routes, and a shrinking economy.
• "It became weak and vulnerable to attacks.": Correct. The division left the Western Roman Empire with fewer resources, a smaller treasury, and a smaller army compared to the East, making it highly vulnerable to invasions by various Germanic tribes.

Answer:

• (A) It became the center of power in the west.
• (B) Christianity thrived as a new religion.
• (C) Trade with other nations increased.
• (D) It became weak and vulnerable to attacks. (Correct answer)