Pope Alexander VI

Robert Jones’ new book roots white supremacy in 500-year-old papal decree

By Yonat Shimron — August 22, 2023
(RNS) — The Doctrine of Discovery shaped the way America’s white, European Christian settlers saw themselves and their mission and gave rise to uncontrollable outbursts of violence.

Vatican restoration uncovers work of Renaissance master

By Josephine McKenna — December 16, 2016
VATICAN CITY (RNS) Pinturicchio spent two years decorating the private apartments of the lusty Pope Alexander VI.

Could Pope Francis make women cardinals? A pipe dream, and an opening

By David Gibson — October 17, 2013
(RNS) There’s a saying in the Catholic Church that while only God can create the world, only a pope can create cardinals.

Vatican uncovers first known depiction of Native Americans

By Alessandro Speciale — May 2, 2013
VATICAN CITY (RNS) A recently discovered 1494 depiction of Native Americans is consistent with Christopher Columbus' account of being greeted by naked men who painted themselves black or red and danced for the European explorers.

New book tries to dispel the “Black Legend” of the papacy’s most scandalous dynasty

By Alessandro Speciale — November 21, 2012

VATICAN CITY (RNS) With hundreds of movies and novels devoted to their crimes and intrigues, the Borgias are probably the most controversial family in the history of the papacy. But a new book, drawing on documents from the Vatican Secret Archive, tries to cast the Renaissance dynasty in a new light and dispel the "black legend" surrounding it. By Alessandro Speciale

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