Pope Benedict XV’s papacy was dominated by World War I, during which he worked to mediate peace and alleviate suffering. His efforts to remain neutral were often criticized, but his diplomacy helped strengthen the Vatican's international standing. Birth name: Giacomo Paolo Giovanni Battista della Chiesa Nationality: Kingdom of Italy Born: November 21, 1854 Died: January 22, 1922 Pontificate: September 3, 1914 – January 22, 1922