Pope Martin V (206º): Western Schism — Complete Guide
Pontificate: 11 November 1417–20 February 1431
Martin V was the 206th pope of the Catholic Church, reigning 11 November 1417–20 February 1431 during the Renaissance papacy. Subject and later the sovereign of the Papal States.
Who Was Pope Martin V?
This biography of Martin V (206º) covers background, major events, and legacy in the line of St. Peter. Common search topics include Western Schism. During the Renaissance papacy, the Bishop of Rome exercised teaching, sanctifying, and governing authority for the universal Church.
Early Life & Background
Before election he was known as Oddone Colonna. Born January–February 1369 Genazzano, Papal States, he entered a world shaped by politics and piety very different from today's global Church.
Historical Context
Martin V sat on the Chair of Peter during the Renaissance, when popes were among the most powerful patrons of art and architecture in Europe — but also faced corruption scandals, the Protestant Reformation, and the discovery of the New World. His election effectively ended the Western Schism. Convened the Council of Basel(1431); initiated the Hussite Wars.
Pontificate & Key Events
The pontificate (11 November 1417–20 February 1431) centered on governance during the Renaissance papacy.
Papal Acts & Achievements
Martin V left a distinct mark through decisions that historians still debate and Catholics still study. His reign contributed to the continuous apostolic succession now numbering 267 popes.
Key Highlights
- 206th pope of the Catholic Church
- Pontificate: 11 November 1417–20 February 1431
- His election effectively ended the Western Schism.
- Convened the Council of Basel(1431); initiated the Hussite Wars.
Legacy in the Catholic Church
Martin V remains pope 206º in the Annuario Pontificio. Read against the Renaissance papacy, his pontificate shows how Providence works through imperfect ministers without abandoning the Barque of Peter.
Why Catholics Study This Pope Today
Studying Martin V helps Catholics see how the Holy Spirit guided the Church through the Renaissance papacy — with human weakness and grace intertwined. Primary sources from this pontificate — bulls, conciliar acts, or encyclicals — reward readers who want depth beyond summaries. Place this pope in context using our chronological list of all 267 popes and the biographies of his immediate predecessor and successor linked below.
Place in the Line of Succession
Martin V followed Pope Gregory XII (205º) in the unbroken line of apostolic succession from St. Peter. Upon his death or resignation, he was succeeded by Pope Eugene IV (207º), who continued the mission of shepherding the universal Church. Explore the full chronological chain in our complete list of all 267 popes, or read the biographies of neighboring pontiffs linked below.