Introduction
The notoriety of Roman Catholicism across Europe figured prominently throughout history - best manifested by the rise of the papacy, headed by the pope and traditionally based in Rome, Italy. The papacy, which stood as the main governing body of Roman Catholicism, has since become embroiled in key political issues throughout its leadership. Despite its limited role in recent times, the papacy was once a center of political authority in Europe, with its influence greatly sought by European powers beginning from the time of Roman Emperor Constantine I up to the Reformation. This study seeks to outline how the papacy ...