Pope Gregory V was the first German pope, serving from 996 to 999. Born as Bruno of Carinthia, he was the grandson of the Holy Roman Emperor Otto I. His papacy was marked by efforts to strengthen the church's authority and promote reform within the clergy. During his time as pope, Gregory V faced challenges, including conflicts with the nobility and issues related to the Holy Roman Empire. His reign was relatively short, ending when he was deposed and exiled. Despite this, he is remembered for his attempts to align the papacy with the interests of the empire.