History of Europe

What divided the church of rome and constantinople?

The Great Schism, also known as the East–West Schism, refers to the mutual excommunications of 1054[1][2] between the Pope of Rome (then Leo IX) and the Patriarch of Constantinople (then Michael I Cerularius), thereby formally dividing Christianity in Europe into what is now referred to as the Roman Catholic Church (in communion with Rome) and Eastern Orthodoxy (in communion with Constantinople). The separation did not occur suddenly, and the theological disputes had a lengthy history.[3][4]

There were a number of theological and political factors that contributed to the schism, including:

- Disagreements over the authority of the Pope: The Pope claimed to be the successor of Saint Peter and the head of the Christian Church, while the Patriarch of Constantinople rejected this claim and asserted his own authority over Eastern Christianity.

- Theological disputes: There were a number of doctrinal differences between the Roman Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodoxy, including the Filioque clause in the Nicene Creed, the use of unleavened bread in the Eucharist, and the doctrine of purgatory.

- Political rivalries: The rivalry between the papacy and the Byzantine Empire played a role in the schism. The Byzantine emperors often sought to control the appointment of the Patriarch of Constantinople, and they resented the growing power and influence of the papacy.

The schism was a complex and multi-faceted event that had a profound impact on the development of Christianity. It led to the creation of two distinct branches of Christianity, each with its own traditions, beliefs, and practices. The schism also had a significant impact on the political and cultural development of Europe and the Middle East.