Constantine the Great

Constantine The Great 336

Q: Who did you take over rule after?

A: Diocletian

Q: Diocletian divided the Roman Empire into East and West, which half did you take over rule in?

A: I took control in the East half, the Byzantine Empire.

Q: Why did you move the capital?

A: I moved the capital from Rome to another city and named it Constantinople. I did this partly because of the corruption and the barbarian attacks in Rome, we needed change.

Q: One of the most important things you have done as emperor is legalizing Christianity in 313. Not only that but you converted to Christianity yourself. Can you tell me about this?

A: Yes, I had seen Christians persecuted in Rome for a long time, even in the time of my father. I had a vision the night before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge. I looked to the sky and saw a Christian sign that said in this sign, you will conquer. I had my soldiers paint the sign on their shields and we won the battle. After that I felt as if the Christian god was important to me. I converted to Christianity and legalized it for all citizens.

Q: Following this battle you also advanced in the political scheme of things correct?

A: Yes, I became the sole emperor of the Roman Empire.

Q: Legalizing Christianity really changed the Roman Empire, how do you think it will affect the future?

A: I think it will affect both the religion and the empire. The religion will most certainly grow and become more popular. I think the empire will become more predominantly Christian rather than Pagan and I think that will change the way it is run.

Hickman, Kennedy. "Battle of the Milvian Bridge - Constantine at the Battle of Milvian Bridge ." Military History - Warfare through the Ages - Battles and Conflicts - Weapons of War - Military Leaders in History. N.p., n.d. Web. 3 Nov. 2010. <http://militaryhistory.about.com