Which Roman emperor is credited with adopting Christianity and halting the persecution of Christians?

The Roman emperor credited with adopting Christianity and significantly halting the persecution of Christians is Constantine. He ruled from 306 to 337 AD and is best known for the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, which granted religious tolerance for Christianity and effectively legalized the religion within the Roman Empire. This pivotal moment allowed Christians to practice their faith openly and without fear of persecution, contrasting sharply with previous rulers, such as Nero, who actively persecuted Christians.

Constantine's conversion to Christianity and subsequent support for the faith played a crucial role in its spread throughout the empire. He also convened the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, which sought to address various theological disputes within Christianity and unify the faith under a single doctrine. His reign marked a significant turning point in the history of Christianity, transitioning it from a persecuted minority to a major religion supported by the state.