22. A solidus of Theodosius I. The last ruler of a united Roman Empire was born to a rich family in Cauca, Spain in the year 347. For Theodosius the simple army life was just as comfortable as the life of luxury at court. During his reign from 379-395 he supported Christianity but always maintained his authority over the bishops. Therefore, before long, church officials gave him the titel of “Theodosius the Great”. Although he was only able to delay the collapse of the empire and not prevent it, Theodosius I can be considered the most significant Emperor of the late 4th century.