Donatists

Donatists, the name given to a sect of Early Christians in Africa, who refused to acknowledge Caecilianus as bishop of Carthage because he had been appointed by Felix of Aptunge, whom they called a traditor (q.v.). Donatus (sometimes called "the Great"), who gave his name to the sect, succeeded Majorinus, who was the candidate selected in opposition to Caecilianus. Constantine declared in favour of Caecilianus, but the Donatists grew in'numbers and power until they began to disagree among themselves and split up into various branches. They were annihilated by the Vandals in the 7th century.