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Today in History: Pope Alexander III Elected Amid Disputed Succession

9/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

After Pope Adrian IV died in 1159, the College of Cardinals met from 4–7 September and split: a majority elected Cardinal Rolando of Siena as Pope Alexander III, while a minority chose Ottaviano de Monticelli, who assumed the name Victor IV. The rival claim sparked a schism that persisted until 1178.

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Story summary

After Pope Adrian IV died in 1159, the College of Cardinals met from 4–7 September and split: a majority elected Cardinal Rolando of Siena as Pope Alexander III, while a minority chose Ottaviano de Monticelli, who assumed the name Victor IV. The rival claim sparked a schism that persisted until 1178.