Persecution of Christians under Decius
For the first time the empire orders everyone to sacrifice
In 250 Emperor Decius ordered every inhabitant of the empire to sacrifice to the gods and obtain a certificate, a libellus; several dozen such papyri have been found in Egypt. Christians who refused were executed — Pope Fabian was among the first to die.
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Meanwhile around the world (±25 years)
Middle East
- c. 240 Mani begins to preach — 10 years earlier
- 260 Battle of Edessa: a Roman emperor taken captive — 10 years later
Africa
- 249–262 Plague of Cyprian — 1 year earlier
Americas
- c. 250 Rise of the Classic Maya cities — same year
Oceania
- c. 232 Hatepe eruption of Taupō — 18 years earlier