Christendom

         Christendom is the worldwide society of Christians. In a historical sense, it refers to the rise of Christianity as a geopolitical power during the medieval and early modern period, primarily in Europe.

         Christianity was not always the powerhouse religion of Europe. Prior to the 7^thcentury A.D. Christianity had spread throughout Eurasia and Africa. Sometime after the death of Muhammad, Christianity contracted. Large Muslim conquests played a huge role in this. Although Muslim rulers often allowed Christians to practice their religion, they were considered second-class citizens. Another possible reason for conquered people converting to Islam was the prestige of the conquering people. Islam carried an air of success to these regions.  An easy way of looking at it is an association with the fall of Rome. 

         Obviously this was not the end of Christianity. Let’s cut to the year 1000. Christian kingdoms had been able to hold off most invasions by this point. Europe was a majority Christian area. A warming weather pattern had prevailed and Europe was looking really good for agriculture. How does farming relate to religion? Agriculture encouraged people to settle, and enjoy an easier life. This was one of the ways more nomadic people were encouraged to settle and convert. Another way that Christians encouraged conversion and expansion was by absorbing the traditions and holidays of the local people, look at the date chosen for Christmas as an example. 

         Expanding agriculture and more settled people also caused a population boom. What was this population that boomed? It was Christians. At this point, Europeans having more prosperity became much more interested in trade and contact with the surrounding people. In fact, they became so interested in other people, that they started the crusades with the aim of taking Jerusalem and other holy places back. The true aim was not just locations in the Middle East. It was about reclaiming all the lost territory of Christianity. 

         The Crusades really reinforced the authority of the church in the lives of Christians. A part of this was the way it resembled the Roman Empire. After the fall of Rome, leader after leader tried to recreate it in Europe. They all failed. In my opinion, I think to this day that is one of the reasons people are so awe struck by the Vatican. It is so reminiscent of a time past.