The fall of the Roman Empire was a gradual process that occurred over several centuries, culminating in the late 5th century AD. Factors contributing to its decline included economic troubles, military defeats, and political instability. The empire faced invasions from various groups, such as the Visigoths and Vandals, which weakened its borders and resources. Additionally, internal issues like corruption and a declining population further strained the empire. In 476 AD, the last Roman emperor, Romulus Augustulus, was deposed, marking the traditional end of the Western Roman Empire. The Eastern Roman Empire, known as the Byzantine Empire, continued to exist for nearly another thousand years.