This seminal work of history by English scholar Edward Gibbon charts the social, political, and cultural history of Rome from its founding to its fall in the 5th century CE. Gibbon's analysis of the causes and consequences of Rome's decline, particularly in relation to the rise of Christianity, remains influential today. First published in six volumes between 1776 and 1788, this magisterial history has been praised for its erudition, scope, and elegant prose. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.