After the fall of the Roman Empire in the fifth century, the western portion of the empire
A. flourished economically through trade with the Islamic world
B. quickly unified under state sponsored conversion to Christianity
C. stagnated economically and fragmented politically Correct
D. underwent a period of rich cultural and intellectual development
Rationale: After the fall of the Roman Empire, the western portion experienced significant challenges. Option C accurately reflects that this region stagnated economically and fragmented politically, leading to the rise of feudalism and localized power structures.
Option A is incorrect as trade diminished, especially with the Islamic world, due to instability and invasions.
Option B misrepresents the reality; while Christianity spread, there was no swift, state-sponsored unification, as various tribes and kingdoms emerged.
Option D overlooks the decline in cultural and intellectual pursuits, as many classical traditions were lost during this tumultuous period.
