|
|
Constantine the Great
Roman emperor
St Constantine the Great
St Emperor Constantine, the Great
the Emergence |
Birth: February 27, c. 274
Death: May 22, 337
Place of Birth: Massius, Moesia (now Nis, Serbia)
Official Title: Augustus
Known for:
Becoming the first Roman ruler to convert to Christianity,
Extending toleration to all religions in the Roman Empire
and establishing Christianity as the favored religion of the
Roman state. Founding Constantinople which became the capital
of the Eastern Roman Empire
|
Milestones:
- 306 Proclaimed emperor at York in Britain after the death of
his father, Constantius I
- 312 Defeated Maxentius at the Milvian Bridge outside Rome to
become sole ruler in the western portion of the empire
- 313 Issued jointly with eastern emperor Licinius the Edict of
Milan, which granted civil rights and toleration to all religions
including Christianity
- 324 Defeated Licinius to become sole ruler of the Roman world
- 325 Presided over the Council of Nicaea to resolve divisive
issues within the Christian church
- 330 Moved the empire's capital to Byzantium, and renamed the
city into New Rome, Constantinople
Constantine saw a cross and the words "Εν τούτο Νίκα!" or "in hoc signo vinces!" (in this sign you will be the victor) in the sky before the battle at the Milvian Bridge, and subsequently sent his army into battle with crosses painted on their shields.
Constantine's religious affiliation remained ambiguous for much of his life, and he was not baptized until shortly before his death. |
|
