340s facts for kids

The 340s were a ten-year period that started on January 1, 340, and ended on December 31, 349. This decade was part of the 4th century. During this time, the powerful Roman Empire continued to shape much of Europe and the Mediterranean world. Many important events happened, and key figures played a big role in history.

The 340s Decade

This decade saw the Roman Empire still divided into different parts, each ruled by an emperor. These emperors often had to deal with challenges from inside the empire and from groups living outside its borders. The spread of Christianity was also a major theme during this period.

Important Events

The 340s were a time of change and movement. One significant event involved the spread of new ideas and beliefs.

Ulfilas and the Goths

During this decade, a man named Ulfilas became a very important missionary. A missionary is someone who travels to teach people about their religion. Ulfilas was a Christian who worked among the Goths. The Goths were a large group of Germanic people living near the Roman Empire. Ulfilas helped to convert many Goths to Christianity. He even created an alphabet for their language and translated the Bible into Gothic. This was a huge step in spreading Christianity among these tribes.

Key People of the 340s

Several important people shaped the history of the 340s. They were leaders, officials, and thinkers who influenced their time.

Roman Emperors: Constans and Constantius II

The Roman Empire was ruled by several emperors during this period. Two of the most important were Constans and Constantius II. They were brothers and sons of the famous Emperor Constantine the Great. Constans ruled the western parts of the Roman Empire. Constantius II ruled the eastern parts. They both worked to keep the vast empire stable and deal with various challenges. Their reigns were important for the future of the empire.

Flavius Philippus: A Powerful Official

Another key figure was Flavius Philippus. He held a very high position in the Roman government. He was the praetorian prefect of the East. A praetorian prefect was like a chief minister or a very powerful advisor to the emperor. They managed many important parts of the empire, including law and finance. Flavius Philippus also served as a consul. A consul was one of the highest elected officials in ancient Rome, often giving their name to the year. His role shows how important these officials were in running the Roman Empire.

See also

In Spanish: Años 340 para niños