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Dictatus Papae

Dictatus Papae, written by Pope Gregory VII in 1075, is a key document that outlines the authority of the Pope over the Church and secular rulers. It asserts that the Pope has the sole power to appoint bishops, depose emperors, and is infallible in matters of faith. This declaration reinforced the idea of papal supremacy, emphasizing the Church's independence from political influence. Dictatus Papae played a crucial role in the Investiture Controversy, a conflict between Church and state over who held the power to appoint church officials. Overall, it marked a significant moment in the history of Church-state relations.