History A-Level
Papal political authority and ambition
What Papal political authority and ambition means in History A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Papal political authority and ambition
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Papal political authority and ambition in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
The papacy had its own political ambitions, including extending its authority over the Church and asserting leadership in Christendom.
Topics that use Papal political authority and ambition
- Reasons for the crusades, 1095–1192 (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- Bernard of Clairvaux
- Byzantine security and the appeal for Western aid
- penance
- Violence, disorder and the redirection of warfare
- just war
- plenary indulgence
- The Investiture Contest and papal–imperial relations
Using Papal political authority and ambition in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise History questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All History A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge