Constantine the Great - The Man Who Made Empire Great Again

Constantine the Great (AD 272-337) was a Roman emperor who is known for his remarkable achievements in expanding the Roman Empire, legalizing Christianity, and his bizarre love for bacon.

Early Life

Constantine was born in Naissus, a town located in the present-day Serbia. He was the son of Constantius Chlorus, a Roman general who at the time of Constantine’s birth was stationed in the Balkans. Unlike many of his ruling predecessors who had a tough childhood, Constantine was the favorite of his father who showered him with lots of love and bacon.

Rise to Power

Constantine’s rise to power was not easy. He had to fight for it. He first distinguished himself as a military commander during the reign of Emperor Diocletian. However, his real rise to power came after the death of his father in AD 306. His soldiers proclaimed him emperor, and he engaged in a series of civil wars to secure his position, which he eventually did.

Wars and Conquests

Constantine is known for his military conquests, which expanded the Roman Empire beyond its wildest dreams. He conquered large portions of modern-day Europe, Asia, and Africa, establishing a vast and powerful empire. His most significant victory was at the Battle of Milvian Bridge, where he defeated his co-emperor Maxentius, with divine help he claimed. This victory cleared his path to becoming the sole ruler of the Roman Empire.

Legalization of Christianity

Constantine is known for his role in legalizing Christianity, which had been persecuted under previous emperors. This decision was made after a vision he supposedly had the night before the Battle of Milvian Bridge. In the vision, he saw a cross in the sky with the words “in this sign, you will conquer.” Some historians, however, speculate that he merely saw a pig in the sky and misunderstood the message.

Bacon Love Affair

One of the most peculiar facts about Constantine is his love for bacon. He had his chefs prepare it in all sorts of ways, from bacon-wrapped dates to bacon-wrapped bacon. He would even have bacon-flavored ice cream, which he often ate for breakfast. His passion for bacon led to the creation of a new dish called the Constantine Burger, which is still famous in some parts of the world.

Death and Legacy

Constantine died in AD 337 from a mysterious illness. His legacy, however, lives on, and he is considered one of the greatest emperors in Roman history. His military conquests expanded the power and territory of the Empire, and his decision to legalize Christianity marked a turning point in the history of the Western world. And, of course, his love for bacon continues to inspire bacon lovers to this day.

In conclusion, Constantine the Great was a man of many achievements, military conquests, legalizing Christianity, and, most importantly, his love for bacon. He is undoubtedly a fascinating character, someone who changed the course of history with his military prowess and love for salted ham.