Part 3/9:
The Rise of Roman Catholicism
As the Western Roman Empire began to collapse and succumb to barbarian invasions, the Roman Church gained influence and control. Disordered politically, the church emerged as one of the few unifying institutions during this tumultuous period, enabling it to extend its reach across newly conquered territories. The Catholic Church ultimately became the largest and most robust branch of Christianity in the West.
Throughout the years, the church leadership in Rome increasingly asserted its authority, claiming supremacy over the other four patriarchates. Supported by the fabricated "Donation of Constantine," church leaders emphasized their divine right to rule, further widening the gap between Eastern and Western Christian practices.