John Paul II

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John Paul II (1920–2005). Pope>1978–2005. Karol Wojtyla was a professor at Lublin University and archbishop of Cracow before becoming the first non-Italian pope since 1523. An energetic man of engaging personality, he has become a well-known figure throughout the world because of his wide travels. He survived an attempt to assassinate him in Rome 1981. Conservative on moral and doctrinal issues, he has been concerned for social questions and for the defence of human rights.

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