The Ancient Corporations: Colleges of Builders in Rome 17and Great Britain, took possession of the latter province and estab-
lished his residence in Eboracum (York). In 305 he became emperor fol-
lowing the abdication of Maximanius, but died in 306 during a
campaign against the Picts.
He was succeeded by his son, Constantine I. Putting an end to the
persecution of Christians, Constantine declared himself their protector.
After his victory over his rival, Licinus, he himself converted to
Christianity, which he made the state religion. During the next century
Christianity spread throughout Great Britain and the Scots and Picts
continued to harass the Romans, who, finding themselves attacked
from all sides, left this land at the beginning of the fifth century. At this
same time, almost the whole of Europe succumbed to the attacks of
barbarians.