Western Schism

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The Western Schism

The Western Schism, also known as the Great Divide or the Great Occidental Schisma, was a significant split within the Catholic Church that lasted from 20 September 1378 to 11 November 1417. This period saw two popes claiming legitimacy simultaneously: Pope Martin V, who reigned from Rome, and Clement VII, who resided in Avignon.

The schism began when Pope Gregory XI died in 1378, followed by the election of Urban VI as his successor. However, the French cardinals refused to recognize Urban VI's authority, instead electing Clement VII, leading to a crisis that would divide Western Christianity for forty years. This period was marked by intense competition and power struggles between the two rival factions.

The schism had significant implications on European politics during the Hundred Years' War. The Roman Church had lost its cultural and social role in society, which had been crucial for its influence over centuries. As a result, the conflict between popes and antipopes became increasingly complex, with tensions fueled by regional conflicts such as the struggle between King Philip of France and Pope Boniface VIII.

The crisis was further exacerbated when Pope Gregory XI returned to Rome after 70 years in Avignon, only to be succeeded by Urban VI. The French cardinals' refusal to accept Urban VI's legitimacy led to Clement VII being elected instead, marking the beginning of a schism that would last for nearly forty years.

Numerous attempts were made to resolve the conflict through councils and negotiations. A council was convened in Pisa in 1409 with the intention of deposing both rival popes and electing a new one, Alexander V. However, this move only worsened the situation. It wasn't until the Council of Constance (1414-1418) that Christianity began to be united under a single pope once again.

The council, summoned by King Sigismund of Germany at the request of the Roman Church, ultimately ended the schism in 1417 when Pope Martin V was elected as the sole legitimate pope. This marked the end of the Western Schism and restored unity to the Catholic Church.