Why did four popes excommunicate Frederick II?
A) He wanted to control Italy, and in an era of papal expansion, the popes were threatened by his territorial and imperial claims.
B) He had supported heretical movements, including the Cathars in southern France.
C) He had worked too closely with Jews and Muslims because of his Sicilian ties.
D) He had challenged the authority of the clergy to administer the new sacraments created by the Fourth Lateran Council.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Frederick II's ambitions to control Italy and expand his imperial power directly threatened the papal territories and the political influence of the popes, leading to his excommunication by four different popes.

Why Did Four Popes Excommunicate Frederick II