Constantine

Constantine's early life

272

Constantine was born in 272 AD in Naissus in the Roman prvince of Moesia. Today it's know as Serbia. Constantine had an excellent education, learning to read in write in both Greek and Latin. He learned about Greek philosophy, mythology and theatre. Despite this privileged life, Constantine was a hostage held by Diocletian in many ways to ensure Constantine's father remained loyal.

Constantine

Period: 272 to 337

Constantine Evading death

303

Constantine spent several years fighting in the roman army where he witnessed Diocletian's persecution and murder of Christians. This had an ever lasting impact on him. A man named Galerius was named Diocletian's heir and saw Constantine's father as a rival. In fear Constantine fled and join his father in Gaul in the Western Roman empire.

Emperor Constantine

308

Constantine was named Emperor, or Augustus of the western portion of the Roman empire when his father became ill. He ruled over Britain, Gaul and Spain. He also began to strengthen and build up much of the area by building roadways and cities

Civil War

311

Galerius died in 311 AD resulting in a competition amoung many powerful men to take over the Roman Empire. A Civil war was unleashed and Maxentius (who lived in Rome) declared himself Emperor and took control of Rome and Italy. Constantine knew if Maxentius was in control he will continue Christian persecution, so Constantine march his army towards Maxentius

Constantine's Great Victory

312

In 312 Constantine approached Maxentius army. Unsure of facing Maxentius in battle (Because Maxentius army was twice the size), though Constantine had a dream where he was told he would win the battle if he fought under the Christian Cross. The following day he dominated the battle, defeated Maxentius, and took control of Rome.

Constantine becomes a Christian

313

Constantine forged an alliance with Licinius who control the East of Rome. They Signed the "Edict of Milan in 313 stating Christians would no longer be persecuted in the Roman Empire since Constantine considered himself a follower of the Christian faith.

Constantine becomes the Emperor of all Rome

324

Licinius Decided to renew the persecution of Christians several years later. Constantine would not stand for this, therefor he marched against Licinius. After Several battles Constantine finally won and became the ruler of a United Rome in 324.

Building Rome

325