303 facts for kids
| Millennium: | 1st millennium |
|---|---|
| Centuries: | 3rd century – 4th century – 5th century |
| Decades: | 270s 280s 290s – 300s – 310s 320s 330s |
| Years: | 300 301 302 – 303 – 304 305 306 |
The year 303 was a common year that started on a Friday in the Julian calendar. It was a time of big changes, especially in the Roman Empire, where important events shaped history.
Contents
Major Events of 303
Roman Empire: A Time of Change
The Great Persecution of Christians
In 303, Emperor Diocletian started the last major persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire. This event is known as the Great Persecution. Christians were not allowed to worship together. Thousands of them were killed over the next 10 years.
On February 24, Galerius, another Roman leader, made an official rule to start this persecution in his part of the Empire.
Important Visits and Buildings
On November 28, Emperor Diocletian visited Rome. This was a special moment because all the main Roman leaders, the Augusti and Caesars, came together. They celebrated Diocletian's 20th year as emperor.
Also, a large Triumphal Arch was built in Thessaloniki to honor Maximian, another Roman emperor.
Events in Other Parts of the World
Asia: A New Ruler in Persia
In the Sassanid Empire, which was a powerful empire in Persia (modern-day Iran), a new Shah (king) took power. Hormizd II became the ruler, taking over from Narseh.
America: Teotihuacan Flourishes
In Mexico, the ancient city of Teotihuacán was thriving. This was a very important city for its time, known for its large pyramids and advanced civilization.
Important Religious Events
The Martyrdom of Saint Adrian
On March 4, Saint Adrian of Nicomedia became a martyr. A martyr is someone who dies for their beliefs, especially religious ones.
Notable People Born in 303
- Magnentius: He later became a Roman leader who tried to take power (a usurper). He died in 353.
- Wang Xizhi: A very famous Chinese calligrapher, known for his beautiful handwriting. He died around 361.
People Who Died in 303
Many people died in 303, including several who are remembered as Christian saints or martyrs:
- April 23 – Saint George: A soldier of the Roman Empire, famous for the legend of him slaying a dragon.
- September 25 – Saint Fermin: A saint from Pamplona, who was beheaded in Amiens, France, while preaching.
- Acacius of Byzantium: A Roman soldier and martyr.
- Adrian of Nicomedia: A Christian saint.
- Cao Huan: The last emperor of the Kingdom of Wei in China.
- Saint Cyriacus: A Christian saint.
- Saint Devota: A Christian saint.
- Saint Pantaleon: A Christian saint.
- Vitus: A Christian saint from Sicily.
Images for kids
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This painting by Jean-Léon Gérôme shows The Christian Martyrs' Last Prayer (1883).
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This artwork shows Saint George of Lydda.
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See also
In Spanish: 303 para niños
