Pope Urban II
The bishop of Rome and ruler of the Papal States (1088 - 1099)
Real World Example
Pope Urban II was a significant religious leader who initiated the First Crusade in 1095, calling Christians to reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim rule. His call to arms greatly impacted Europe, as it united various Christian kingdoms against a common enemy and expanded the influence of the Catholic Church. At the time, this action mattered because it shifted the power dynamics in Europe and encouraged a sense of shared Christian identity. Today, Pope Urban II's legacy can still be seen in the way religious leaders inspire collective action, highlighting the power of unity and faith. For example, when communities come together for charitable causes or global issues, like climate change or poverty, they echo the spirit of unity and purpose that Pope Urban II once ignited.