This era saw the height of the Pope's influence, particularly under Pope Innocent III, who claimed authority over European monarchs [4].

The church collected tithes (a tenth of income) and sold indulgences (certificates for the forgiveness of sins) to fund its operations and crusades [2, 4].

Movements that disagreed with official church teachings were suppressed through the Inquisition and special church courts [4].

The official split between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches due to political and theological differences [2].