Pope Boniface VIII, born Benedetto Caetani in 1235, served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church from 1294 to 1303. He is best known for his strong assertion of papal authority, particularly through his papal bull, Unam Sanctam, which declared that submission to the pope was necessary for salvation. His reign was marked by conflicts with secular rulers, including King Philip IV of France. Boniface VIII also initiated the first Jubilee Year in 1300, encouraging pilgrims to visit Rome and seek forgiveness. His papacy faced significant challenges, including political strife and opposition, ultimately leading to his capture by French forces in 1303.