Pope Clement XI (b. 1649; r. 1700–1721)

The early years of Clement, who is remembered as combative and indecisive, were defined by the War of Spanish Succession (1701–14). His initial recognition of Philip V (grandson of Louis XIV) as king of Spain angered the Holy Roman Emperor Leopold I, whose son invaded the Papal States a few years later, forcing Clement to transfer his allegiance to Charles VI (the invader's brother). This was personally humiliating for the pope and also highlighted the vulnerability and political impotence of the papacy.

Source: Scher, Stephen K., et al. The Scher Collection of Commemorative Medals. New York and London, 2019.