Pope Benedict XI, born Niccolò Boccasini in 1240, served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church from 1303 until his death in 1304. He was elected pope during a time of political turmoil and worked to restore peace within the Church and its relations with the Holy Roman Empire. His papacy was marked by efforts to address issues of corruption and to promote reform. Benedict XI is known for his commitment to justice and his attempts to mediate conflicts between rival factions in Italy. He is also remembered for his beatification of Saint Catherine of Siena, emphasizing the importance of holiness and moral integrity in the Church. His reign lasted only eight months, but he left a lasting impact on the papacy.