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272
Constantine is born.
Flavius Valerius Constantine was born in Naissus in the Roman province of Moesia. -
Period: 272 to 293
Constantine's Education
Growing up, Constantine received excellent education, learning to read and write in both Greek and Latin. Adding to this, he learnt about Greek philosophy, mythology, and theatre. Although Constantine had a very privileged life, he was a hostage held by Diocletian, to ensure that his father remained loyal. -
Period: 295 to 303
Constantine fought in the Roman Army.
Constantine spent several years fighting in the Roman Empire, where he witnessed Diocletian's persecution and murder of Christians, which had a huge, lasting impact on him, because of his relationship with Christians. Diocletian's heir, Galerius, saw Constantine and his father as a rival. There are many stories of Galerius trying to have Constantine killed, but Constantine managed to survive each time. He then fled and joined his father in Gaul, in the Western Roman Empire. -
305
Constantine was named Emperor
Constantine was named Emperor, or Augustus of the Roman Empire. He ruled over Britain, Spain, and Gaul. Constantine developed the reputation as a good leader and stopped the persecution of Christians in his territory. -
311
Galerius' death
Galerius died, resulting in a competition among many powerful men to take over the Roman Empire. Maxentius, declared himself Emperor and took control of Rome. Constantine then had his army march against Maxxentius. -
312
Constantine approaches Rome
Constantine approached Rome with an army about half the size of Maxentius. Constantine had a dream where he was told he would win the battle if he fought under the Christian cross.The following day, Constantine has his soldiers paint crosses on their shileds. His army dominated the battle, and took control of Rome. -
313
Constantine made alliance with Licinius.
Constantine forged an alliance with Licinius in the East after taking Rome.