I am an Atheist, but I have always been of the opinion that Jesus did indeed exist as a historical man - in context, a radical Middle-Eastern Jewish preacher in 1st century Palestine. The evidence for his existence should not be held to a magnificently higher standard than other historical figures.

Even though I am an Atheist, I think there is an ideological desire to undermine the authenticity of the existence of Jesus.

Either way, thoughts?