There are many theories about why the Roman Empire collapsed. Some say that their economy, which was largely driven by tributes from conquered kingdoms and smaller empires, expanded to the point where their income was far surpassed by their spending. In short, they spent more in Rome, than they received through their conquests.

Others will argue that their military stronghold over their surrounding areas expanded too much to be effective, leaving Rome itself open to enemies who were waiting at their front door for such an opportunity. When the Gauls sacked Rome in 387 AD and then again by the Visigoths in 410 AD, it became clear to Roman authorities that their city was not as impenetrable as they had previously thought.

Many scholars argue regarding the exact date of the fall of the Roman Empire. Many agree it happened relatively early, claiming 476 as the official date. Others claim it happened much later, in 1453 at the fall of Constantinople.

There is one theory, that is often over looked. This theory holds that the Roman Empire is still alive, and thriving today, stronger, wealthier, and more influential than ever. And it was all due to a shift in policy back to 312, when Constantine converted to Christianity. Some believe that when Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire, holding the seat of power of the Roman Catholic Church, it changed its strategy.

The new Holy Roman Empire slowly shifted from a military and political organization into a religious one. From conquering people with weapons and destruction, it took a subtler tactic, of persuading minds and societies. As the power held by the Emperors of Rome slowly shifted into the hands of the Pope, the Rome slowly made its transition.

Soon the Roman Catholic Church would do what the Roman Empire never could. Control all of Europe, and send ships with priests and men with guns out across the vast oceans to conquer and convert millions.

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