Often it has been associated with the symbol representing pagan gods. The Tyrians, Chaldeans, Phoenicians, Aztecs, Eastern Indians, Babylonians, Greeks, Egyptians, Norse, Romans, and other civilizations have used the cross in one form or another to symbolize a god. The cross sometimes varied in form between these cultures. The Romans borrowed the practice and enhanced it for the execution of the most reprehensible criminals. A victim can live in agony possibly up to nine days at a time if a special seat is attached to the cross to support the victim.
Archaeology seems to bear out differing types of crosses used.
The Tau cross which consisted of an upright pole fixed into the ground and removable crossbar which may have weighed around 75 pounds. The crossbar was attached at a site on top of the pole. Most historians believe that Jesus was executed on this type of cross. The Latin cross bears a similar resemblance to the Tau cross, except that its crossbeam is attached lower on the pole, giving it the look that we have become familiar with. Sometimes no crossbeam would be used so the impalement device would simply be the pole, which could weigh anywhere from 100 pounds or more.