Angelo Sodano

Angelo Sodano (born November 23, 1927) is an Italian Cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church who held one of the Church's highest positions as Secretary of State of the Holy See from 1991 to 2006. Born in Ischia, he studied theology and law, eventually pursuing a career in the Vatican's diplomatic service. His long tenure as Secretary of State made him the second-most powerful figure in the Vatican after the Pope, serving under both Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. Sodano was instrumental in Vatican diplomacy, international relations, and internal Church governance during a pivotal period that included the fall of communism in Eastern Europe and the Church's evolving response to social and political challenges. He also served as Dean of the College of Cardinals, a prestigious position reflecting his respected status. Sodano was created Cardinal in 1991 and remained influential in Vatican affairs well into his later years. His long service in the Vatican's highest echelons made him a significant figure in late 20th and early 21st-century Church history, though he has also been subject to controversy regarding his handling of historical Church matters.