CageFree

Just a nitpick but it wasn't just Byzantium... although the Roman Empire was divided into two halves for administrative purposes, it was still the Roman Empire. In fact, the Byzantines called themselves Romanoi, and continued to do so until the fall of Byzantium in the 15th century.

No, because both Protestants and Catholics can trace their beliefs back toward this period. This is when basic ideology developed... it wasn't just about rituals and hierarchical organization. Using Catholic for this period is simply anachronistic. It makes no sense in the context of ancient times. It'd be like saying that Spaniards can't trace their origins to Rome because the Ostrogoths invaded and took over. Catholicism was first created as a term after the Council of Nicaea, but it first came into use in contrast with the Orthodox Church (The Great Schism), rather than with Protestantism.

Constantine issued the Edict of Milan in 313, which declared a toleration policy. It wasn't until Theodosius ca. 380 that Christianity became the official religion. There are many questions as to Constantine's true beliefs. The theory I tend to subscribe to, based on all of my reading, is that he believed in Jesus much like he believed in other gods at the time... he was not an "exclusive" Christian. So why get so involved in the church? (i.e. Council of Nicaea) - because after the third century crisis, the Roman bureaucracy (which had been in the hands of provincial aristocrats) had broken down. The Church's hierarchical organization, and its presence in major urban centers, presented a viable opportunity to re-establish the system. Local elite began to assume positions as bishops in order to regain their political influence, and bishops were, until the 5th century, bureaucrats more than spiritual leaders. Also, keep in mind that there was no such thing as Catholicism at the time. It was Christianity.

Anyone care to claim the 2 Davis acceptances?

American History R_Escobar (20th century, American Indian), crazedandinfused, hopin'-n-prayin' (southern, religious), stevemcn (transnational), Simple Twist of Fate (early American) European History Kelkel, goldielocks (Britain), SapperDaddy (Eastern and Central Europe) African History Oseirus, Singwaya18, Safferz Latin American History teachgrad (20th century, Southern Cone), BH-history Near/Middle Eastern History uhohlemonster Atlantic World sandyvanb Jewish History uhohlemonster, hopin'-n-'prayin

LOL. Thankfully I don't have a heavy FB habit. I did play Mafia Wars though a couple of summers ago, and when I started the school year it was so bad I was playing during passing periods, under my desk. After about 2 weeks of that, I decided to block it from FB and I got my life back.

Constantine did not get baptized as a Christian until he was on his deathbed. This was a very common practice in the Roman World... the idea was to go to heaven with a clean slate.

LOL yeah, it's pretty pathetic. I leave him alone to do his thing most of the time (he's good) and usually have one window open to GC, and then rotate between HuffPo, LA Times, application sites, email, and Pinterest.

You too! What do you want to do with your Ph.D.? Policy, curriculum, or..?

I was thinking that since we have a thread about acceptances, it'd also be interesting to have something similar for our fields. I only know about 2 Latin Americanists on here, and I would love to be able to PM and talk about the programs, what to expect, etc. Maybe start with: American History European History African History Latin American History teachgrad East Asian History Near/Middle Eastern History Others???

I have a student teacher right now so I have very little to do most of the day. Hence, I'm here on GC. A LOT. **edited for typo.

The History board is definitely popular

I'm sending you a PM.

People on here have been so incredibly supportive that I can't help but be thrilled for them.. especially those who're doing this for the second or third time and are finding success. Personally, I am very happy that they have been so successful this year and, in the case of people in my own field, hope to one day come across them. I have not seen anyone "gloating," simply being very happy to be successful, and I don't think it's fair to tell those people to go to "another thread." I WANT to hear their good news, for what it's worth.

I'm a coward. I deleted the bookmark to UW-M's site because I am positive I was rejected. I just don't want to see it.. three in a row.

TMP - that's an awesome quote.

Don't talk like that. You still have to hear from others. Stay strong.

That sucks re: Berkeley.

Just joining the Safferz fan club!!! Congrats!

Oh, I'm very happy with Davis. It really is the best fit for me, and I get to stay in the West Coast, near my family.

Rejected from Princeton too. I did apply to a couple of other programs but I will be going to UC Davis... it was in my top 2.

I could have written this post. The only difference is my fiance has a M.S.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Congrats to all Chicago admits!!!

That is AWESOME! Congratulations!