Henry IV became king of Germany in 1056, when he was only 6 years old. His mother ruled for him until he was old enough to take the throne in 1065. Henry, a wily ruler, is famous for his long struggle with Pope Gregory VII.

Strategic humiliation

The pope, who claimed supreme power over all earthly rulers, disputed Henry’s right to appoint bishops. In 1076, Henry declared the pope deposed. In return, the pope expelled Henry from the church. Many German princes sided with the pope, and rebellions broke out. Without the support of the princes, Henry had no choice but to submit. In 1077, he stood for three days barefoot in the snow in front of the castle of Canossa in Italy until Pope Gregory forgave him.

Short truce

The truce between pope and emperor turned out to be a short one. Pope Gregory again excommunicated Henry in 1080. Henry struck back by capturing Rome, overthrowing Gregory, and replacing him with a rival pope, Clement III. The new pope crowned Henry Holy Roman emperor in 1084. Since then, Henry has defended his empire against many enemies, including his own sons.