The Edict of Milan was an integral part of the transformation of Christianity from the Middle Ages to modern society. Constantine and Licinius agreed to create this edict in 313. During this century Christianity was not tolerated but is currently a growing religion in today's society. The religion went from being a small and unacceptable cult to expanding into multiple denominations and being an influential part of the lifestyle and political governance of many countries. When the Edict of Milan was issued, religious tolerance marked the beginning of religious transformation throughout the Roman Empire. The transformation was physical, mental and spiritual. The physical and mental effects were noted in the way people were treated and the pagan traditions they incorporated. On a spiritual level, the effects ranged from freedom of religious expression to the victory of the church. Before the Edict of Milan, persecution of Christians was very common. They were considered exclusivists, anarchists, against the Roman government and blamed for the cause of the great disaster that occurred in this period. Depending on the Roman emperor who ruled, the severity of Christian persecution was determined, for example Nero was more adamant in persecuting religion than Constantine. After the creation of the edict, the acts of torture and murder of Christians ceased, as did gladiatorial shows. The edict helped pave the way for religious freedom that forever changed multiple religions. Christianity in today's society is expressed freely and practiced without shame. Although Christians are still persecuted around the world, this is on a much smaller scale than in the Middle Ages. After the Edict of Milan, the Christian society was created... have influence (Rosenwein). As for slaves, although the rise of Christianity did not affect their use, the change came in how slaves were treated better. The way people thought about and cared about others changed. Christians began to be welcomed when they went out to conduct missionary work and spread the word of their religion. The rise of Christianity was already happening in the Roman Empire, but the Edict of Milan was important for future generations of rulers. It allowed the development of religions and the possibility of freely expressing one's spirituality without consequences. Christianity spread across the empire more rapidly and became an ever-moving force throughout Europe. The transformation of this religion was great and even today Christianity is widespread and present in many countries.