Emperor Henry IV was a significant ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, reigning from 1056 to 1106. He is best known for his conflicts with the papacy, particularly with Pope Gregory VII, which led to the Investiture Controversy. This struggle centered around the appointment of bishops and the balance of power between the church and the state. Henry IV's reign was marked by political instability and rebellion. He faced challenges from various nobles and was eventually excommunicated by Gregory VII. In a dramatic turn, he famously stood in the snow at Canossa in 1077, seeking forgiveness from the pope, which temporarily restored his power.