Constantine the Great, also known as Flavius Valerius Constantinus, was a pivotal figure in Roman history, and his legacy continues to shape our world today. He is best known for his role in converting the Roman Empire to Christianity and establishing the Byzantine Empire.
In this article, we will delve into the life and achievements of Constantine the Great, including his family and kids, the famous Constantine coin, and the iconic statue that commemorates his contributions.
Table of Contents
Biography
Constantine the Great was born on February 27, 272 AD, in the city of Naissus, in modern-day Niš, Serbia. He was the son of Flavius Valerius Constantius, an army officer, and Helena, a humble innkeeper’s daughter. His early life was marked by frequent moves within the Roman Empire due to his father’s military assignments. Constantine received a solid education, including military training and a thorough understanding of Roman politics and governance.
Military Career
Constantine’s military career began under the rule of Emperor Diocletian, who divided the Roman Empire into Eastern and Western halves to make it more manageable. Constantine’s father, Constantius, served as a military officer under Diocletian. In 306 AD, upon his father’s death, Constantine was declared Augustus (Emperor) by his troops. However, his control was initially limited to the western provinces.
The Battle of Milvian Bridge
Constantine’s journey to becoming the sole ruler of the Roman Empire was marked by a pivotal event – the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD. According to legend, Constantine had a vision of a cross in the sky along with the words “In hoc signo vinces,” which means “In this sign conquer.” Inspired by this vision, Constantine ordered his soldiers to paint the Christian symbol, the Chi-Rho (☧), on their shields. He subsequently defeated his rival, Maxentius, at the Battle of Milvian Bridge, making Constantine the ruler of the Western Roman Empire.
Conversion to Christianity
Constantine’s victory at the Battle of Milvian Bridge marked a significant turning point in his life and the history of Christianity. He is credited with issuing the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, which granted religious tolerance to Christians and officially ended the persecution they had faced for centuries. Constantine himself converted to Christianity and became the first Roman Emperor to do so. His conversion played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.
Constantine the Great Kids and Family
Constantine was married twice during his lifetime. His first wife was Minervina, with whom he had a son named Crispus. His second wife was Fausta, the daughter of Emperor Maximian. Constantine and Fausta had several children, the most well-known being Constantine II, Constantius II, and Constans, who would go on to rule the Roman Empire after his death.
Constantine II
The eldest son of Emperor Constantine the Great, Constantine II was born in 316 AD. As one of the co-rulers of the Roman Empire after his father’s death, he faced the challenge of governing the western provinces. His reign, starting in 337, was marked by conflicts with his younger brothers, which ultimately led to his death in 340 AD during a battle against Constans. Constantine II is remembered as an ambitious but ultimately unsuccessful ruler.
Constantius II
Born in 317 AD, Constantius II was the second son of Constantine the Great. He assumed control of the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire and became the sole ruler of the entire empire after the death of his brothers. His reign was characterized by efforts to maintain the stability of the empire and promote Arian Christianity, which led to religious controversies and conflicts with other Christian sects. Constantius II ruled from 337 until his death in 361 AD.
Constans
The youngest of Constantine the Great’s three sons, Constans was born in 320 AD. He initially ruled over the western provinces, co-ruling with his brother Constantine II. Following his brother’s death, Constans became the sole ruler of the western part of the Roman Empire in 337 AD. His reign was marked by efforts to stabilize the empire and manage internal conflicts. However, his own rule ended tragically when he was assassinated in 350 AD during a rebellion led by the general Magnentius.
Constantine the Great Coin
One of the most enduring symbols of Constantine the Great’s reign is the “Constantine coin.” This coin, known as the solidus, was a gold coin introduced by Constantine to stabilize the Roman economy. It was renowned for its purity and consistency in weight, becoming the standard for centuries. The image on the coin often featured Constantine’s profile, and it symbolized his efforts to reform the Roman currency system.
Constantine the Great Statue
The Statue of Constantine the Great, also known as the Colossus of Constantine, was an enormous sculpture of the Roman Emperor that stood in the city of Rome, made of white marble, bronze, and brick. The statue was about 40 feet (12 meters) tall and depicted Constantine holding a Christian cross in his left hand and a globe in his right, symbolizing his rule over the world. It was erected in the early 4th century AD and stood in the Roman Forum. Today, only fragments of the statue remain, but it serves as a testament to Constantine’s profound influence on the Roman Empire and the spread of Christianity.
In conclusion, Constantine the Great’s life was marked by remarkable achievements, including his conversion to Christianity, the Battle of Milvian Bridge, and the introduction of the solidus coin. His reign played a crucial role in shaping the course of Roman history and the spread of Christianity. The iconic statue of Constantine, though now in fragments, stands as a reminder of his monumental contributions to the world. Constantine’s legacy continues to influence both religious and political spheres, making him one of the most significant figures in world history.
Below, you will find a timeline of key events in Constantine’s life, recommended books for further reading, a fictional diary entry, and related articles that can help you get a deeper understanding of this enigmatic figure.
Timeline
Here is a timeline of the key events in the life of Constantine the Great:
- February 27, 272 AD: Constantine is born in Naissus, in the Roman province of Moesia (modern-day Niš, Serbia).
- 293 AD: Constantine’s father, Constantius Chlorus, becomes Caesar in the Tetrarchy, a system of four co-ruling emperors established by Emperor Diocletian.
- 306 AD: Upon the death of his father, Constantine is declared Augustus (Emperor) by his troops in York, England, marking the beginning of his rule. Constantine’s rule is initially limited to the western provinces of the Roman Empire, while his co-emperors control other regions.
- 312 AD: Constantine has a vision of a cross in the sky before the Battle of Milvian Bridge. He orders the Christian Chi-Rho symbol to be painted on his soldiers’ shields and defeats Maxentius, becoming the ruler of the Western Roman Empire.
- 313 AD: Constantine and his co-emperor Licinius issue the Edict of Milan, granting religious tolerance to Christians and effectively ending their persecution in the Roman Empire.
- 314 or 316 AD: Constantine defeats the rival Emperor Maxentius in the Battle of Cibalae, solidifying his control over the Western Roman Empire.
- 315-316 AD: Constantine begins a series of administrative and military reforms, including the introduction of the gold solidus coin, which becomes the standard for centuries.
- 324 AD: Constantine defeats Licinius in the Second Battle of Adrianople, becoming the sole ruler of the Roman Empire.
- 325 AD: Constantine convenes the First Council of Nicaea, a gathering of Christian bishops, to address theological issues and establish some key doctrines of Christianity. The Nicene Creed, which defines the Christian belief in the Holy Trinity, is formulated during this council.
- 330 AD: Constantine relocates the capital of the Roman Empire from Rome to Byzantium, which he renames Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul, Turkey), marking the foundation of the Byzantine Empire.
- 337 AD: Constantine the Great dies on May 22, in Nicomedia, at the age of 65. He is succeeded by his sons, Constantine II, Constantius II, and Constans, who rule the Roman Empire jointly.
Further Reading
To gain a deeper and more nuanced understanding of Constantine the Great, consider exploring one or more of these five essential works on his life, rule, and historical significance:
- “Constantine the Great” by Michael Grant: This biography provides a well-rounded account of Constantine’s life and reign, offering historical context and analysis of his significant achievements.
- “The Life of Constantine” by Eusebius of Caesarea: Eusebius, a contemporary of Constantine, wrote a significant account of the emperor’s conversion to Christianity and his role in the early Christian Church.
- “Constantine and the Christian Empire” by Charles Matson Odahl: This work delves into the intricate relationship between Constantine and Christianity, exploring his religious policies and their impact on the Roman Empire.
- “Constantine the Emperor” by David Potter: Potter’s book provides an in-depth examination of Constantine’s political and military career, tracing his rise to power and his administration of the Roman Empire.
- “Constantine the Great: And the Christian Revolution” by G. P. Baker: Focused on the transformative effect of Constantine’s conversion to Christianity, this book explores the religious and cultural changes that occurred during his rule.
These five works collectively offer a comprehensive understanding of Constantine the Great, from his personal life and military campaigns to his pivotal role in the Christianization of the Roman Empire.
Fictional Diary Entry
Below is an attempt at writing a fictional diary entry from Constantine the Great, with the aim of making his character and history come to life. Enjoy!
Date: March 15, 324 AD
Dear Diary,
Today marks a momentous day in my life and the history of the Roman Empire. I sit in my chambers in the city of Byzantium, the city I’ve decided to rename Constantinople in my honor, reflecting on the path that has led me here.
The decision to relocate the capital from Rome to this magnificent city at the crossroads of Europe and Asia was not made lightly. Rome, the eternal city, has been the heart of the empire for centuries. Yet, the challenges faced by this vast realm have demanded a change. Byzantium’s strategic location, protected by natural barriers and access to the Black Sea, makes it an ideal center for the empire’s administration and defense.
But this move is not just about bricks and mortar; it is symbolic of the transformation I wish to bring to the Roman Empire. Rome, with its long history of paganism, is a place of old beliefs and customs. My embrace of Christianity and the Edict of Milan have ushered in an era of tolerance and religious freedom. Now, with Constantinople as the new capital, I hope to foster a Christian empire where faith plays a central role in governance and daily life.
My conversion to Christianity was a profound turning point in my life. The vision of the Cross at the Battle of Milvian Bridge was not just a coincidence. It was a divine sign that guided my steps towards faith and unity within the empire. Today, as I walk through the streets of Constantinople, I see the burgeoning Christian community, the magnificent churches, and the hopeful faces of believers. It fills me with pride and a sense of purpose.
Of course, my rule has not been without challenges. The threats from external forces persist, and I must remain vigilant. But I believe that through strong leadership and divine guidance, we can overcome these obstacles and ensure the prosperity of this new capital.
As I conclude this diary entry, I am filled with hope for the future of the Roman Empire. With faith in my heart and a vision of unity and tolerance, I will continue to lead this great empire towards a new era. May God grant me the wisdom and strength to fulfill this destiny.
Constantine