Answer:
a) They gain control over the military
Step-by-step explanation:
In the Middle Ages, popes became stronger in several ways, including:
c) They accumulated wealth and political power: Popes acquired vast amounts of wealth through donations from wealthy individuals and the Catholic Church's ownership of land and properties. This accumulation of wealth allowed them to exert influence and patronage over various political and social affairs.
a) They gained control over the military: Popes established their own military forces, such as the Papal States and the Papal Guard, which provided them with the means to defend their territories and assert their authority. This military power allowed popes to engage in conflicts and assert their influence over secular rulers.
b) They established new religions: While not a significant factor in the strengthening of the popes, they did play a role in defining and shaping religious doctrines and practices within Christianity. Popes, as leaders of the Catholic Church, had the authority to establish new religious orders and promote religious reforms.
d) They promoted secularism: This option is not accurate in relation to the question. Popes in the Middle Ages were not promoters of secularism, but rather held significant power and influence over religious and spiritual matters.
Overall, the accumulation of wealth and political power, along with the establishment of military forces, were the primary factors that contributed to the increasing strength of popes during the Middle Ages.