4th century Facts for Kids

Millennium:	1st millennium
Centuries:	3rd century · 4th century · 5th century
Decades:	300s 310s 320s 330s 340s 350s 360s 370s 380s 390s
Categories:	Births – Deaths Establishments – Disestablishments

The 4th century was a time of big changes, lasting from the year 301 to 400. During this period, the world saw major shifts, especially in the Roman Empire. It was a time when new ideas and cultures began to spread, shaping the future of many civilizations.

The 4th Century: A Time of Big Changes
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The 4th Century: A Time of Big Changes

The 4th century was a period of significant transformation across the globe. Empires rose and fell, and new religions gained power. It was a time when the world started to look very different from how it had been before.

The Roman Empire's New Direction

The Roman Empire was still very powerful at the start of the 4th century. However, it faced many challenges, both from inside and outside its borders. Emperors worked hard to keep the vast empire together and strong.

Constantine the Great and Christianity

One of the most important figures of this century was Constantine the Great. He became Roman Emperor in 306 CE. Constantine made a huge decision that changed history: he made Christianity a legal religion in the empire. Before this, Christians were often persecuted. His actions helped Christianity grow rapidly across Europe and beyond. He also moved the capital of the Roman Empire from Rome to a new city he built, called Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul).

Splitting the Empire

Later in the century, the Roman Empire became so large that it was difficult to manage. In 395 CE, the empire was officially divided into two parts: the Western Roman Empire and the Eastern Roman Empire. This split was meant to make governing easier. However, it also marked the beginning of the end for the Western Roman Empire, which would eventually fall.

Important Events Around the World

While the Roman Empire was changing, other parts of the world were also seeing major developments.

In China, different dynasties ruled, and there were periods of both unity and division.
In India, the Gupta Empire was a powerful kingdom known for its advancements in science, math, and art. This period is often called the "Golden Age of India."
In the Americas, civilizations like the Maya continued to thrive. Cities like Tikal were important centers of culture and trade. They built impressive temples and developed advanced writing and calendar systems.

Life in the 4th Century

Life for ordinary people in the 4th century varied greatly depending on where they lived. In the Roman Empire, cities were busy places with markets, public baths, and grand buildings. Most people worked in farming. Education was mainly for the wealthy. The spread of Christianity brought new ways of thinking and living for many. People started to build more churches and monasteries.