[Modernman]

And few people understand that crucifixion was routine for the Romans. They lined the roads leading to Rome with the crucified in order to deter crime.

The Romans were harsh masters, but they had to be. They were trying to hold together a multi-ethnic, multi-religious empire that spanned from Scotland to the Danube to the Sahara. A man who challenged the status quo (like Jesus) could only expect one fate.

[elbucko]

....multi-religious empire that spanned from Scotland to the Danube to the Sahara.

I beg your pardon, the Romans never subjugated the Scots.

[Spok]

"The Romans were harsh masters, but they had to be. They were trying to hold together a multi-ethnic, multi-religious empire that spanned from Scotland to the Danube to the Sahara."

Sometimes cruelty is calculated, but not always...remember the Coliseum.