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324
Constantine Becomes Emperor of Rome
Constantine was the renowned leader who conquered his enemies under the name of Jesus Christ. He had become one of the four emperors of Rome around 12 years earlier, but after he defeated the other Augustus Maxentius and then his runner-up Licentius, Constantine could claim rule over the whole of the Roman Empire. He converted it to Christianity and moved the capital to Byzantium, which he renamed Constantinople. This event was important because it caused Rome to do a 180 and become powerful. -
455
Vandals Sack Rome
The Vandals were a Germanic tribe that had become somewhat integrated in Roman culture. They had been driven away from their homeland in part due to the Huns, and had been at war with Rome for around 40 years before they sacked Rome. Led by the barbarian king Gaiseric, an army of 80,000 men conquered much of Italy and remained in power until after Gaiseric's death. Although the original meaning of the word "vandal" means "wanderer," it's used mainly to describe destruction and barbaric action. -
481
Clovis becomes King of the Franks
Clovis was a Frankish king that ruled in the late 5th century and early 6th century. He was a crucial character in the transition from the Roman Empire to Europe, and he is famously compared to Constantine by Gregory of Tours, having been a Christian king. He is credited with being the political and religious stabilizer of the Franks. His empire stretched across much of Gaul (France) and survived for more than 200 years. -
570
The Birth of Muhammad
Muhammad was a teacher in the early 7th century. He is best known for founding the religion of Islam, under the pretense of receiving visions from angels. Within 400 years after his lifetime, Islam became one of the largest and most powerful religions in history. Islam has never been persecuted or subjugated, unlike most other religions.