The fall of Rome in 476 AD marked the end of an era, but not the end of its legacy. As the Western Roman Empire crumbled under pressure from Germanic invaders, the concept of "Rome" as the pinnacle of power and civilization endured. In the centuries that followed, various states and empires sought to claim the mantle of Roman succession, each believing they were the true heirs to the imperial legacy. From the Byzantine Empire in the East to the Holy Roman Empire in the West, and even to the far-reaching claims of the Russian tsars, the idea of Rome continued to shape European politics, culture, and identity long after the last emperor was deposed. What Did the Romans Ever Do for Us? (Video) Japan’s Succession Crisis: No Male Heirs Means Ancient Monarchy May Soon Disappear! Roman Succession: The Quest for Imperial Legitimacy Why Would States Claim Roman Succession? The temptation to claim Roman succession was a strong one. It came with plenty of benefits and few, if any, downsides. States and individual rulers sought this status for reasons that ranged from political and economic to cultural. Legitimacy and Prestige: Attaching themselves to Rome’s impressive legacy was an excellent way for rulers to give themselves instant credibility and elevate their perceived status. Read moreSection: NewsHistoryImportant EventsRead Later