EUROPE

Diocletian splits Rome into two regions

285

As a result of Rome's vast conquering of land, they were unable to govern all of the provinces from one central seat.

Edict of Milan

313

The Edict of Milan was a letter signed by Constantine allowing the freedom of religion in Rome.

Nicene Creed

325

The Nicene Creed was a statement which tried to unify the Christian Faith by creating a formal set of beliefs in which all sects of Christianity should follow.

Theodosius II builds great wall around Constantinople

336

These walls, built by Theodosius, were great walls that surrounded Constantinople and proved a great fortification system, defending the city from numerous opposing forces.

The Sacking of Rome

410

The sacking of Rome was when the Visgoths, a Germanic tribe from Spain, attacked the deteriorating Rome. The Visgoths were led by King Alaric and at the time Rome was no longer the capital of the Roman Empire.

Justinian becomes Emperor of the Byzantine Empire

527

During his reign, Justinian made many advances that benefited the Byzantine Empire. He was responsible for the Justinian Code, which was a code of laws that lasted in the Byzantine Empire for over 900 years. Justinian also failed to reconquer the western half of Rome, a goal he was determined to set out and do

The Construction of the Hagia Sophia

537

The Hagia Sophia was built in 537 CE by Justinian to serve as an eastern orthodox Cathedral. It now serves as a mosque and museum.

Muhammad conquers Mecca

Jan 11, 630

The conquest of Mecca was an important event in Muslim history. Led by the prophet Muhammad, the Muslims conquered Mecca on January 11, 630.

Ali is assassinated

Jan 26, 661

On January 26, 661, Ali, the last caliph, is assassinated at the Great Mosque of Kufa by a swordsman. Ali ends up dying two days later as a result of his wounds. This historical event in Muslim history resulted in the eventual split between the Sunni and Shia sects of Islam.