Rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire

Roman Rule of Israel

63 BCE

The Jews were very hostile to the new regime in Israel. Jews were very surprised and broke out into a revolt. Jerusalem was completely destroyed along with their Jewish temple. Many Jews were sold into slavery at this time.

Jesus of Nazareth

30

In Christianity, Jesus is the messiah. Through his death by Crucifixion, he forgave all sins. This is the main belief of Christians. Christian's also believe that Jesus will rise again one day. One of Jesus' disciples, Paul, helped spread the word of Christianity after Jesus died.

Great Fire of Rome

64

The Great Fire of Rome was started by Nero, the ruler of Rome at the time. He wanted to burn the city down so he could rebuild it to his liking. The only section that was left unharmed was the section where the Christians inhabited. Nero decided to blame the Christians for his fire since their section of the city was left unharmed. This started the prosecution of Christians.

Paul of Tarsus

68

Paul of Tarsus was also known for his Jewish name of Saul of Tarsus. He was the second founder of Christianity. Paul never actually met Jesus. He traveled 10,000 miles to spread the word of God to people.

Perputia

203

Perputia was a Christian martyr. She was arrested because of the new African Empire who wanted to ban Christianity. She kept a diary of her trial. Her diary became very famous because she was one of the first Christian martyr.

Great Persecution of 303 CE

303

The great persecution was the most severe punishment for Christians in Rome. In 303, emperors limited Christians legal rights to practice their religion in public. Places of Christian worship were also destroyed. Christianity almost ended during this time period.

Battle of Milvian Bridge

312

This battle took place between Constantine and Maxentius. Constantine won the battle, it is thought that he won because of the symbol he received from the Christian God. Because of Constantine winning the battle and becoming emperor of Rome, he made Christianity legal.

Edict of Milan

313

The Edict of Milan was made by Constantine. It gave Christians the right to worship in Rome. It promised to restore the religious buildings for the Christians as well. This document saved Christianity in Rome.

Constantine the Great

324

Constantine was about to go into battle to be the new emperor of Rome when he saw a sign in the sky. The symbol was called, "In Hoc Signo Vinces". This message in the sky told him to paint a symbol on his soldier's shields and then he would win the battle.Constantine won the battle and then made the Edict of Milan. This gave Christians the right to practice their religion. Constantine also became a Christian eventually.

Emperor Theodosius

379

Theodosius established Christianity as the state religion of Rome. He defended it against other religions. He also allowed the followers of Christianity to relocate. He withdrew state support from all other religions.