Pope Innocent XIII, born Michelangelo de' Conti in 1655, served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church from 1721 until his death in 1724. He was elected pope during a time of political and religious challenges in Europe, including the aftermath of the War of the Spanish Succession. His papacy focused on internal church reforms and strengthening the authority of the papacy. Innocent XIII is known for his efforts to improve the administration of the church and for promoting the Baroque style in art and architecture. He canonized several saints and worked to enhance the church's influence in various regions, particularly in Italy and France.