Christendom

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In the 4th century AD, a new faith emerged from Palestine, overpowering Roman paganism and converting Emperor Constantine. By the 11th century, Christianity had become deeply entrenched in European culture, leading to a period of Christian rule and paving the way for later colonization and imperialism. However, the rise of Christianity was not inevitable. Peter Heather delves into how this small, committed sect evolved into a mass movement centered in Rome, constantly facing internal threats from heresies and competing beliefs. Following the collapse of the Roman Empire, Christianity was nearly extinguished but underwent a remarkable transformation. Heather highlights the Papacy's rise as it adopted Roman legal techniques and even engaged in forgery to establish itself as the leader of a vast international organization. The achievement of Christendom extended beyond defining official Christianity; it involved scholars, lawyers, and missionaries who effectively wielded religious authority across diverse medieval European populations. This history reveals the dynamic and adaptive nature of Christendom, showcasing its extraordinary journey and impact on Europe.