When the Roman Empire collapsed the rest of Europe was left out in the cold with no protection. Many lords rose up took over the thrown and led their people for centuries through disease, poverty, and war. Yet these kings and emperors basically appointed themselves and had to start over by having to make new laws and traditions. King Louis IX was that man that solidified the way a ruler should rule over people and …showed first 75 words of 986 total…

…showed last 75 words of 986 total…secular power from the church's power, helping to fight against corruption; one of the church's worst effects on history. Both of these men were given power to them but it's what they did with their power that made them great. The fact that with the power they both held was used to the people's advantage and not to their own is a greatness within itself. Both men paved the way for future kings and popes.