Henry IV, Holy Roman Emperor was born in 1050 and ruled from 1056 until his death in 1106. He was a member of the Salian dynasty and became emperor at a young age after the death of his father, Henry III. His reign was marked by significant conflicts, particularly with the Pope over the investiture controversy, which involved the appointment of bishops and church officials. Henry IV's struggles with the papacy led to his excommunication by Pope Gregory VII in 1076, prompting him to seek forgiveness. This conflict highlighted the tension between secular and religious authority during the Middle Ages, shaping the future of the Holy Roman Empire and its relationship with the church.