John Paul II, born Karol Wojtyła in 1920, was the first non-Italian pope in 455 years when he was elected as the Pope in 1978. He served until his death in 2005, making him one of the longest-serving popes in history. His papacy was marked by efforts to improve relations with other religions, including Judaism and Islam, and he was known for his strong stance against communism. During his time as pope, John Paul II traveled extensively, visiting over 120 countries and addressing millions of people. He was a vocal advocate for human rights and social justice, emphasizing the importance of dignity and respect for all individuals. His teachings and writings continue to influence the Catholic Church and its followers worldwide.