Question

Why did the election of a French pope lead to a split in the papacy?

A) Due to theological differences within the Church.
B) Because the French pope refused to reside in Rome.
C) As a result of political and nationalistic influences.
D) It was a response to an outbreak of the Black Death in France.

Answer 1

The election of a French pope led to a split in the papacy due to political and nationalistic influences, resulting in rival papal courts in Rome and Avignon.

Step-by-step explanation:

The election of a French pope led to a split in the papacy primarily due to political and nationalistic influences. In the early 14th century, tensions between the French monarchy and the papacy escalated, leading to the move of the papal residence from Rome to Avignon, France. This relocation, along with the French rulers' reluctance to give up their influence over the pope, resulted in a division with rival papal courts in Rome and Avignon.