Pope Stephen VIII

Stephen VIII ( IX ) (* in Rome, † October 942) was Pope of 14 July 939 until his death in late October 942

Stephan VIII was born in Rome and was probably Cardinal Priest of Santi Silvestro e Martino ai Monti. His election to the papacy was under the influence of the Roman Prince Alberic II. He was the second Pope, who owed his position to the interference of this prince. Because of the dependence given by he reigned only formally over the Papal States.

From his pontificate few events are known. So Stephen is said to have in common with Alberich supports the reforms monastery of Cluny and receive Abbot Odo of Cluny. In the French struggle for the throne, he stood on the west Frankish king Louis IV page.

According later, unsafe sources Stephan VIII was involved in political battles between the Italian King Hugh of Arles and Alberic II and took part in a revolt against his former promoter Alberich. That's why he had been imprisoned, and finally punished by mutilation, in consequence of which he died.