In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg explore the surprising origins of Christianity.

From a carpenter's son's teachings to its unexpected rise to global dominance, discover how this religion, appealing to the marginalized, provided a sense of community and purpose in a brutal world. Learn how this religion, once seen as a radical threat, became a defining force in Western history.

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This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.

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@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:16) The Rise of Christianity

(02:04) Roman Empire and Social Dynamics

(04:35) Jesus of Nazareth and His Impact

(15:06) Sponsor: beehiiv | Babbel

(16:10) Christianity's Appeal and Spread

(33:16) Persecution and Triumph

(38:16) The Evolution of Christianity

(50:59) Christianity's Cultural Adaptations

(57:45) Conclusion and Book Recommendations

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

• The Immortality Key: The Secret History of the Religion with No Name by Brian C. Muraresku
• Apollodorus of Tyana
• Household Gods by Harry Turtledove 
• Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes: Removing Cultural Blinders to Better Understand the Bible by E. Randolph Richards
• The 3D Gospel: Ministry in Guilt, Shame, and Fear Cultures Kindle Edition by Jayson Georges
• Dominion by Tom Holland
• Through the Eye of a Needle: Wealth, the Fall of Rome, and the Making of Christianity in the West, 350-550 AD by Peter Brown
• The World of Late Antiquity by Peter Brown 
• Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years by Diarmaid MacCulloch
• The Rise of Christianity by Rodney Stark