CONSTANTINE THE GREAT
CONSTANTINE THE GREAT
c.272 - 22 May 337 CE
ROMAN EMPEROR WHO CONVERTED TO CHRISTIANITY
Constantine was born in Naissus, Moesia (Serbia) and campaigned against the Persians and was with his father in Britannia. Constantine was declared Emperor of Rome by his father’s soldiers in York, England after his father died in 306. Constantine had to deal with civil wars, and had to overcome rivals such as the Eastern Emperor Licinius who he eventually defeated.
Constantine became Christian in 312 and was the first Christian Empeor of Rome. He allowed freedom through the empire, which put the end of persection for Christians. He was also the one who established the unity of church and state. He had the Church of the Holy Sepulchre built in Jerusalem on the apparent site of Jesus’ tomb.
Constantine became ill and knew he was near death and had a final resting-place prepared for himself and spent his last days praying. He died aged 65. Constantine was buried in the Church of the Holy Apostles, his tomb and body was destroyed not long after the Fourth Crusade in 1204.
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