A Day That Shook The World: Pope John Paul II dies

Friday 01 April 2011 00:00 BST

(Getty)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

On 2 April 2005, the third-longest serving Pope in history died at the age of 84.

A controversial figure, John Paul II took many conservative stances on divisive issues, including contraception and abortion, though he did support democracy in the former Soviet parts of Eastern Europe.

His body lay in state at St Peter's Basilica for four days, and his funeral became something of a celebration of his life for four million mourners. He was followed by the equally conservative Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger.

Watch original British Pathe footage from John Paul II's life and funeral above.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering

A Day That Shook The World: Pope John Paul II dies

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering