John Paul I (pope)
1912 – 1978 Italian Pope (1978)
The smiling pope who died after only 33 days in office.
- Religion
- Catholic; Bishop of Rome
- Affiliations
- The papacy
John Paul I charmed the world with his warmth and was nicknamed the smiling pope. He was the first pope to take a double name, honoring his two predecessors. He died suddenly just thirty-three days into his reign, one of the shortest in history, which set off lasting rumors and conspiracy theories. His sudden death led to the surprise election of the Polish cardinal who became John Paul II.