Description: (Head of the Catholic Church and Ruler of the Papal States from 1049 to 1054)
Pope Leo IX was a prominent figure in the Middle Ages who led the Catholic Church and governed the Papal States from 1049 until his passing in 1054. He was instrumental in the Great Schism of 1054, which resulted in the formal split between the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. Leo IX focused on upholding traditional morals and implementing reforms within the Church. He organized synods and councils to tackle problems like simony and the marriage of clergy. The Catholic Church honors him as a saint.