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Constantine The Great Essay

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Constantine
Constantine, formerly known as Constantine the Great, was the first Catholic emperor of the Roman empire. He ruled from 306 to 337 A.D. During his reign, he contributed to crucial political and religious reform that continue to affect western society. Additionally, he is known for his accomplishments such as his support for Christianity, creating Constantinople, forming the Edict of Milian, and his religious policy.
One significant period in Constantine’s life was the time he spent in Great Britain and Gaul. During this time, he was a military commander who campaigned against the eastern provinces. However, unlike various commanders before him, he fought with a purpose. As a result, he became known for his wise and swift moves …show more content…

Before the battle, Constantine had a vision depicting him holding the cross of light towards the sky and stating “ Under this sign, you will win the victory.” As a result, he ordered all of his soldiers to paint the cross of Christ on their shield. Although he was a skilled military leader, he attributed his success in battle to God and shortly after declared himself a Christian. In fact, Constantine was so heavily impacted by his experience with God that in 313, he and his co-emperor Licinius, created the Edict of Milan in order to guarantee religious freedom for all. However, in 324 A.D., this partnership crumbled when Constantine defeated Licinius in a civil war and became sole …show more content…

However, the process of truly becoming a Christian proved to be a difficult task. The process included the following; a process of discipline, a lengthy period of education, baptism, and a bishop present to guide you. Although Constantine believed in one supreme God, he did not live in a way that most Christians did. His experience with Christianity consisted of practicing religion in the way he wanted, intervening in the church, viewing himself as the most powerful bishop, participating in Pagan holidays, he was not under the direction of the church, and he was feared by all bishops. Despite his lifestyle, his conversion favored Christians, acknowledged one God, and religious traditions were more aligned with Christian

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