Which example best describes an external factor that causes the end of an empire?(1 point) Responses civil war civil war being overtaken by another empire being overtaken by another empire changes in population changes in population the cost of running an empire

Being overtaken by another empire is the best example of an external factor that causes the end of an empire.

The example that best describes an external factor that causes the end of an empire is being overtaken by another empire.

The external factor that best describes the cause of the end of an empire among the given options is being overtaken by another empire.

To understand why being overtaken by another empire is considered an external factor causing the end of an empire, let's break down the other options and explain why they may not be the most suitable examples.

1. Civil war: Civil wars are internal conflicts within a country or empire and are typically considered internal factors rather than external ones. While civil wars can certainly contribute to the downfall of an empire, they are usually rooted in internal factors, such as political instability or social unrest.

2. Changes in population: Changes in population, whether increase or decline, can have long-term effects on an empire, but they are not necessarily external factors. Population changes can be influenced by both internal and external factors, such as natural disasters, migration, or economic conditions. Therefore, it does not specifically highlight an external factor causing the end of an empire.

3. The cost of running an empire: The cost of running an empire can indeed contribute to its decline, but it is more of an internal factor rather than an external one. Economic mismanagement, excessive military spending, or unsustainable taxation can lead to the downfall. However, these factors are driven by decisions and policies made within the empire itself.

On the other hand, being overtaken by another empire explicitly points to external factors. When a dominant empire is conquered or absorbed by another rising power, it signifies that external forces have played a significant role in bringing about the empire's demise. This could be due to military invasions, geopolitical shifts, or the emergence of more powerful and advanced empires. Thus, being overtaken by another empire is the most fitting example of an external factor causing the end of an empire among the given options.