The Influence Of Constantine On The Byzantine

The emperor Constantine has been called the most important emperor of the Byzantine. The great events of his reign laid foundations that would affect the future of many European civilizations to come. His support of Christianity was one of the most important moments in world history. Moving the government of the Roman Empire to Constantinople and founding “New Rome” was another important decision he made, changing the fate of Europe and it’s people. Another sign that showed how important Constantine was that the next 10 emperors would take his name.
Of Constantine’s major accomplishments, the most important would have to be his support for Christianity. In 311 C.E. he ordered the stop of the prosecution of the Christians. Autumn of 312 C.E. he was challenged by Maxentius who also wanted to be emperor. The night before the fight he had a dream that Constantine saw the initials of Christ and ordered everyone in his army to paint it on their shields. Constantine forces
During this meeting the emperors granted the full tolerance of Christianity, legalizing their religion and granting them restoration of all their property seized during Diocletian’s persecution. The conference was cut short when Licinius heard that his rival Maximin had crossed the Bosporus and invaded European territory. Licinius left and soon defeated Maximin. After Licinius leaving and defeating Maximin, Constantine had suffered an assassination attempt at the hands of someone that wanted Licinius to be elevated to the rank of Caesar. Licinius on his part had Constantine’s statues in Emona destroyed. They clashed once again in 317 at the Battle of Mardia, and agreed to make Constantine's and Linius sons caesars. After this arrangement, Constantine ruled Pannonia and Macedonia and took residence at Sirmium, from where he could start a war on the Goths and