Pope Gregory XVI, born Bartolomeo Alberto Cappellari in 1765, served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church from 1831 until his death in 1846. He was known for his conservative stance and opposition to modernism, emphasizing traditional Catholic values. His papacy was marked by a commitment to the Catholic Church's authority and a resistance to the growing influence of secularism in Europe. During his reign, Gregory XVI faced various political challenges, including the rise of nationalist movements and the unification of Italy. He condemned the Papal States' loss of territory and was critical of liberal reforms. His encyclicals addressed issues like education and the importance of faith in society.