John Paul II

Birthday: May 18, 1920
Died: April 2, 2005
Age: 84
Net Worth: $0M

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About

Pope John Paul II led the Catholic Church and served as sovereign of Vatican City from 1978 until his death in 2005. He was the first non-Italian pope since the 16th century. John Paul II was the third-longest-serving pope in history, following St. Peter and Pius IX. His papacy was marked by extensive travels and efforts to bridge divides between religions and cultures.

Career Timeline

1978A$0M

First Non-Italian Pope Centuries

Elected as Pope John Paul II, the first non-Italian pope in 455 years. This historic election made him an instant global figure and household name across the Catholic world.

1981S▲$0M

Assassination Attempt Survival

Survived an assassination attempt in St. Peter's Square, shot by Mehmet Ali Ağca. His survival and forgiveness of the attacker enhanced his global stature as a moral leader.

1989S$0M

Fall of Communism Influence

Played a crucial role in the collapse of communism in Poland and Eastern Europe through his support of Solidarity. He became a symbol of freedom and was widely credited with helping end the Cold War.

1998S$0M

Cuba Visit Historic Breakthrough

Made a historic visit to Cuba, meeting with Fidel Castro and drawing massive crowds. His papal travels made him the most-traveled pope in history and a global cultural icon.

2000S$0M

Millennium Celebration Global Coverage

Led the Catholic Church into the new millennium with major events and apologies for historical sins. His global influence was at its peak as one of the world's most recognized figures.

2003S$0M

Iraq War Opposition

Strongly opposed the U.S. invasion of Iraq, using his moral authority to advocate for peace. Despite declining health, he remained a powerful voice on the world stage.

2005A▼$0M

Death Mourned Worldwide

Died after a long illness, with millions gathering in Rome and worldwide mourning. His funeral was attended by the largest gathering of heads of state in history.

2014A$0M

Canonization as Saint

Canonized as a saint by Pope Francis, solidifying his spiritual legacy. This marked his formal recognition within the Church's greatest honors.

2026A$0M

Enduring Papal Legacy

Remains one of the most influential popes in modern history, remembered for his role in ending communism and his extensive global outreach. His papacy is studied and celebrated as a defining era for the Catholic Church.