
Pope Gregory III
Pope Gregory III was the leader of the Roman Catholic Church from 731 to 741 AD. He is known for strengthening church authority, promoting the use of icons (religious images), and supporting missionary efforts to convert pagan communities. During his papacy, he also faced political challenges from the Byzantine Empire's influence in Italy and sought to maintain the church’s independence. Gregory III contributed to the development of church policies and helped shape the religious landscape of Europe during the early medieval period.