Which of the following best explains the overall demographic trend shown in the chart?

The correct choice highlights the movement of power and resources toward the eastern Mediterranean region, setting the stage for the emergence of the Byzantine Empire. This trend reflects significant historical shifts during the late antiquity period when the Western Roman Empire was in decline. The centralization of power in the East can be traced to various factors, including the consolidation of territories and administrative reforms that characterized the Byzantine Empire’s rise. As the West faced political instability and economic difficulties, the East became a hub of wealth and cultural exchange, ultimately leading to the survival and evolution of Roman political and cultural traditions in a new form.

The other choices, while potentially related to various historical developments, do not accurately capture the specific demographic trend illustrated in the chart. For instance, the expansion of agricultural practices due to improved technology refers to advancements that might support populations but do not directly address the shifts in power dynamics and administration in the region. The rise of maritime trade routes in the Mediterranean is certainly relevant but focuses more on economic aspects rather than the demographic and political changes signified by the rise of the Byzantine Empire. Lastly, the decline of urban centers across Western Europe speaks to a different phenomenon, emphasizing urban decay rather than the consolidation and flourishing of power in the East. Overall, the demographic trend is