Question

The earlier years of the Middle Ages began with

A. the Crusades.

B. the collapse of the Roman Empire.

C. the Renaissance.

D. the search for new trade routes.

Answer 1

Likely with (B) the collapse of the Roman Empire. More specifically, the Western Roman Empire as the Eastern Roman Empire ascended, becoming the Byzantine Empire. The early Middle Ages were also referred to as the "Dark" ages.

The Crusades would happen centuries later. The search for new trade routes was a constant theme, but would not be as important until Muslim states rose up in the Middle East and asserted their authority. And the Renaissance typically marked the end of the Middle Ages.

Answer 2

Thanks!