Wikipedia has a brief but thorough article on Pope Benedict XV (1914 - 1922).Here is Pope Benedict XV's "Plea for Peace" during World War I.
Wikipedia also has a very thorough bio and extensive links on the life, work, and thought of Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger who chose Benedict XVI as his papal name following his election on April 19th, 2005. According to Wikipedia, "many have commented that this choice was a direct nod to Benedict XV and a signal that Benedict XV's views of humanitarian diplomacy as well as a relaxation of the position against modernism will be emulated during his reign."
FILED UNDER: POPE
