The "Third-Century Crisis" was precipitated by:
A) the harmonious state of affairs created by the rule of the Five Good Emperors.
B) none of the Five Good Emperors having a male heir to whom to leave the throne.
C) the economic collapse of the Roman Empire in 180 caused by the death of Marcus Aurelius.
D) the retreat from the eastern frontier and violent tendencies of Hadrian's successor, Commodus.
E) rivalries for the imperial throne and the short reigns of those who succeeded in taking it.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The "Third-Century Crisis" was a period of political, economic, and military upheaval in the Roman Empire, characterized by frequent changes of rulers, civil wars, and invasions. This was caused by the rivalries for the imperial throne and the short reigns of those who succeeded in taking it, as various military commanders, governors, and usurpers tried to grab power, sometimes with the support of the army or the people, and sometimes through violent means. The lack of a clear line of succession, the pressure of external threats, the decline of traditional sources of revenue, and the inflationary spiral of the economy also contributed to the crisis.

The "Third-Century Crisis" Was Precipitated By