Theodosius I

Theodosius I, also known as Theodosius the Great, was a Roman emperor from 379 to 395 AD. He is notable for being the last ruler to govern both the eastern and western halves of the Roman Empire. Theodosius is best remembered for making Christianity the official state religion, which significantly influenced the course of Western civilization. He also enacted laws against pagan practices and heresies, solidifying the Church's role in governance. His reign marked a turning point in the empire's religious landscape and set the stage for the Christianization of Europe. He died in 395, after which the empire was permanently divided.