36. \( (1.4,1.5 \); DOK 2\( ) \) Why did the Emperor Constantine build a new capital? to commemorate the place where he experienced religious conversion because he had a huge budget surplus to escape the authority of the pope

Constantine the Great built a new capital, known as Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), primarily to serve as a strategic hub for trade and military defense. By establishing the city on the Bosporus Strait, he created a bridge between Europe and Asia, enhancing the Empire's ability to control key trade routes and defend against invasions. Additionally, this move signified a shift in power from the declining western half of the Roman Empire to the east. Real-world implications of Constantine's decision are profound; the establishment of Constantinople laid the foundation for the Byzantine Empire. This thriving metropolis became a center for art, culture, and the Orthodox Christian faith, influencing the course of European history for centuries. Its strategic location and fortifications also contributed to its status as a critical trade hub and military stronghold, echoing its historical importance even today.