Rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire

Roman Rule of Israel (begins)

64 BCE

A last attempt to restore the former glory of the Hasmonean dynasty was made by Mattathias Antigonus, whose defeat and death brought Hasmonean rule to an end. The Land became a province of the Roman Empire. In 37 BCE, Herod, a son-in-law of Hyrcanus II, was appointed King of Judea by the Romans.

Jesus of Nazareth

1 CE

Central figure of Christianity, he was their leader and signal for hope. He had disciples and followers, however he was crucified for his open practice and preaching of Christianity.

Great Fire of Rome

64

The great fire of Rome was a fire that spanned over a 6 day period, burning away 1/3 of Rome. While there were many accounts of how the fire was started, many people think that Nero started the fire, and used the Christians as a scapegoat, blaming them for starting the fire. This lead to the persecution of Christians, and ended up contributing to the Genocide of anyone practicing Christianity

Paul of Tarsus

64

Also known as Saint Paul, Paul spread the gospel across the countries, spreading the practice and knowledge of Christianity. Without him Christianity would not have made it past Europe, and even the rest of the world.

Perpetua

203

Noblewoman who was executed for practicing Christianity, this event shows how practicing Christianity surpassed the social boundaries in the time of persecution.

Constantine the Great

272

Before the battle of Milvan, Constantine got a vision saying if you follow the sign, you will prevail. He took this "advice", and later won the battle. He then gained faith in Christianity, and created the Edict of Milan, giving permission for everyone to practice whichever religion they desired.

Great Persecution of 303 CE

303

The Great Persecution was the last and most severe persecution of the Christians. The emperor Diocletian stated that any Christian who does not practice the Roman religion will die. This lead to the genocide of Christians around Rome, however the Christians still practiced their religion and stood strong. This persecution shows how strong their faith and belief was, for Christianity is still standing today.

Battle of Milvian Bridge

312

This was the battle that Emperor Diocletian won, that eventually solidified his faith in Christianity. This event sparked the Edict of Milan, allowing anyone in Rome to practice any religion they wanted

Edict of Milan

313

Letter/document signed by Constantine allowing all citizens to practice any religion they wanted, including Christianity. This is the first time that Christians are allowed to practice their religion without persecution.

Emperor Theodosius

347

Emperor Theodosius established Christianity as the state religeon, and protected it from paganism and Arianism.