The Diocletian persecution, also known as the Great Persecution, occurred from 303 to 311 AD under the Roman Emperor Diocletian. It was the most severe persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire, aimed at eradicating Christianity and restoring traditional Roman religious practices. Diocletian issued a series of edicts that led to the destruction of Christian texts, the closure of churches, and the imprisonment of Christian leaders. During this period, many Christians faced torture, execution, and forced sacrifices to Roman gods. The persecution varied in intensity across different regions, but it marked a significant moment in the struggle between the Roman state and the growing Christian community. Ultimately, the persecution ended with the rise of Constantine the Great, who favored Christianity.