Because a majority of the Western Empire consisted of the poor and Lower Class, they were depended upon for the development and welfare of the empire. For example, poor, independent farmers could sell their crops to outsiders of the Empire for goods and money. During this time of heavy taxation, the farmers were unable to create enough goods because they have squandered all of their supplies to pay taxes. The economy of the Western Empire was based upon agriculture and horticulture. Due to the failure of these independent farmers to meet their quota, the economic welfare of the Empire was greatly damaged. Over time of repeating the cycle of decline, the Empire became too large to control politically and to keep a good economy going. By the middle to late fourth century, Rome had stopped expanding, as there was literally no more land to take (the empire stretched throughout Europe and the Mediterranean). Rome had gained most of their money through expansion, so as the expansion ended, money stopped coming in to Rome. Senators and emperors did not have the experience of budgeting Romes finances, as in the past Rome had always gained so much money through expansion (Coolidge, 110). This proposed a devastating problem, as Rome had a vast area of land and numerous people to support financially. More money was being spent and had to be spent in the future, while virtually no money was coming in. At this time, Rome was also dealing with the problem that their military was becoming weak. In the past, citizenship was granted to soldiers after they had served in the military. Citizenship was a great right since it gave way to possible political power back then. However, in the later empire, citizenship was granted to all males and it was no longer a reason to join the military. There was no real reason or benefit to joining the military, and as a result, the number of soldiers rapidly declined. This problem most likely could have been repaired...
