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Name:
Pope Pius VI
Born: Giovanni Angelo Braschi
Preceded by: Clement XIV (1769 - 1774)
Succeeded by: Pius VII (1800 - 1823)
Roman Catholic Pope #251
Dates:
Born: December 25, 1717 (Italy)
Died: August 29, 1799
Pope: February 15, 1775 - August 29, 1799 (24 years)
Biography:
Pius VI was elected pope at a time when secular power was growing throughout Europe,
edging aside the traditional powers of religious institutions. During his pontificate, Pius
not only proved unable to stem this tide, but in fact it grew worse at an increasing pace.
One problem was the development of Febronianism. According to some, all bishops are equal and the popes lay claim to many powers and privileges which they neither get from Christ nor were exercised by the early church. Secular leaders found this philosophy very appealing and it led for some to call for the nationalization of the Catholic churches and more tolerance of differences among Christian denominations.
Another serious issue which Pius had to face was the French Revolution. At first Pius didn't object when Catholic priests were made employees of the state; however, when they were forced to swear loyalty to the state instead of the church, Pius condemned the actions of the French government and the Rights of Man document.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
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