A noted historian explores the reasons for the decline and fall of Rome over the course of three centuries, including the invasions of the so-called barbarians, social and economic problems, and the decline of the Roman army. History's Great Defeats explores the many and varied reasons behind the failure, defeat, or collapse of civilizations, world powers, and major military campaigns. This unique series offers insight into the social and economic forces and the political and military problems that have brought down whole societies and thwarted mass movements--both ancient and modern. Topics will span the globe and the ages, ranging from the Crusades of medieval Europe to the Aztecs of the Americas to the end of the Cold War and the collapse of communism. Lively narrative, numerous primary and secondary source quotations, and detailed bibliographies enhance each book and its usefulness for student researchers.