Theodosius was Roman Emperor from 378 to 395. He was the last emperor to rule over both the eastern and the western halves of the Roman Empire. He established Christianity as the state religion, and successfully defended it against paganism, and the religion known as Arianism. He founded a dynasty which ruled in the east and west until 450 and 455 respectively. Theodosius brought peace to the east with diplomacy, and defended this with a rebuilt military.
Theodosius carried on a successful war with the Goths, whom he encouraged to become the allies of the Romans. The Eastern Empire was strengthened with the creation of separate military commands reporting directly to the Emperor. During his reign, Theodosius successfully fought two brutal civil wars against usurpers Maximus and Eugenius. As the defender of Christianity, Theodosius defeated pagan forces in 394. This is considered by many to be his greatest achievement.
