WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Although it is often claimed that Christians were persecuted for their refusal to worship the emperor, general dislike for Christians likely arose from their refusal to worship the gods or take part in sacrifice, which was expected of those living in the Roman Empire.

Detailed explanation-2: -Christians were occasionally persecuted-formally punished-for their beliefs during the first two centuries CE. But the Roman state’s official position was generally to ignore Christians unless they clearly challenged imperial authority.

Detailed explanation-3: -The Romans initially persecuted Christians. They saw their monotheistic religion to be a threat to the state. However, Christians continued to grow in number and in influence. By the 4th century AD, Christianity had become the official religion of the Roman empire.

Detailed explanation-4: -Christianity displaced the polytheistic Roman religion, which viewed the emperor as having a divine status, and also shifted focus away from the glory of the state and onto a sole deity. Meanwhile, popes and other church leaders took an increased role in political affairs, further complicating governance.

Detailed explanation-5: -Although they famously suppressed the Druids during their invasion of Britain, the Romans were largely tolerant of other religions, provided that the conquered populace incorporated the Imperial Cult into their worship.