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391 facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Millennium: 1st millennium
Centuries: 3rd century4th century5th century
Decades: 360s  370s  380s  – 390s –  400s  410s  420s
Years: 388 389 390 – 391 – 392 393 394

The year 391 AD was a very important time in the Roman Empire. During this year, a major change happened regarding religion. The Roman Emperor, Theodosius, made a new law that changed how people practiced their faith across the empire.

What Happened in 391 AD?

In 391 AD, Emperor Theodosius made a big decision. He declared that Christianity would be the only official religion allowed in the Roman Empire. This meant that other ancient Roman religions, which had been practiced for hundreds of years, were no longer allowed.

Why Was This Law Made?

Before this, the Roman Empire had many different religions. People worshipped various gods and goddesses. However, Christianity had been growing stronger for centuries. Emperor Theodosius was a Christian himself. He believed that making Christianity the only religion would help unite the empire.

How Did This Change Things?

This new law had a huge impact.

  • Many old temples were closed down.
  • Public worship of the old Roman gods stopped.
  • Christian churches became more powerful.
  • This event is seen as a key moment in the history of both Christianity and the Roman Empire. It helped shape the future of Europe.



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391 Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.