Vladamir vs. Constantine

The conversions to Christianity that Vladamir and Constantine both went through are really only the same on one level: they did both convert to Christianity. Besides that, these two moments in history were very different. Constantine saw God while in battle, and His message powered Constantine and his troops to victory. This was eye-opening for Constantine, and he fully embraced the religion. He established the Edict of Milan, and Christians were free to practice their religion. The entire conversion was very positive and smooth. When Vladamir converted, on the other hand, he was not as good a role model as Constantine. Constantine embodied the Christian beliefs of freedom and kindness, while Vladamir was quite the opposite. He ordered his people to convert as well, and his public image did not match up with his beliefs. He was a promiscuous drunk. He forced Christianity upon his people, taking away any choice or freedom they had. Not as impressive as God coming to you during battle to tell you how to win.