Dan Snow's History Hit How Did Ancient Romans become Christians?
36 snips
Jan 1, 2026 
Professor Alice Roberts, an expert in archaeology and history, dives deep into the swift rise of Christianity within the Roman Empire. She explores how early Christians organized communities and adapted Roman governance structures. Alice discusses the conversion of elites, the pivotal role of bishops, and how mutual benefits emerged between church and state. The impact of cultural exchange and urban networks also highlights why this faith spread rapidly. Roberts ties in fascinating insights from her book 'Domination', shedding light on a transformative period in history.
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From Jewish Sect To Urban Religion
- Christianity began as a Jewish movement and spread to Gentiles largely through Paul's missionary work.
- By the fourth century it remained a minority but had strong urban footholds and organisation.
Bishops As Civic Administrators
- By the fourth century Christians were already organised with bishops performing civic administrative roles.
- Constantine recognised their usefulness and tasked them with public services like provisioning and legal work.
Think Culture Like An Ecology
- Alice Roberts compares analysing Christianity's spread to studying species: ideas succeed through both internal traits and external ecology.
- Economics and social networks shaped how Christianity could be supported and scaled.
