Pope Zachary served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church from 741 to 752 AD. He is known for his efforts to strengthen the papacy and for his role in the political landscape of Italy during the Lombard invasions. His papacy was marked by a focus on church reform and the establishment of stronger ties with the Frankish kingdom. Zachary is also recognized for his support of the Carolingian dynasty, particularly Pepin the Short, which helped solidify the relationship between the papacy and the Frankish rulers. His leadership contributed to the eventual rise of the Holy Roman Empire and the influence of the church in European politics.