Pope John Paul II Dies at 84

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On April 2, 2005, Pope John Paul II, the first non-Italian pope in over 450 years, died in his Vatican apartment at the age of 84. John Paul II was one of the most influential leaders of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, playing a crucial role in the fall of communism in Europe and the former Soviet Union.

Why it matters

John Paul II's passing marked the end of an era, as he was a towering figure who had a profound impact on global politics and the Catholic Church during his 27-year papacy. His death sparked an outpouring of grief and mourning around the world, as he was widely respected for his moral leadership and efforts to promote peace and human rights.

The details

John Paul II, born Karol Józef Wojtyła, was the 264th pope of the Catholic Church. He was the first non-Italian pope since the 16th century and is credited with playing a pivotal role in the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe through his support for the Solidarity movement in his native Poland and his advocacy for human rights.

• On April 2, 2005, John Paul II died in his Vatican apartment at the age of 84.