Upon Pope John's XXIII death, 4 December, 1334, the Cardinals in Conclave, most of whom opposed a return to Rome, demanded of Cardinal de Comminges whose election seemed assured, the promise to remain at Avignon. His refusal precipitated an unexpected canvass for candidates. On the first ballot, 20 December, 1334, many electors, intending to sound the mind of the Conclave, voted for the unlikely Cardinal Fournier, who, though he was one of the few men of real merit in the Sacred College, was but lightly regarded because of his obscure origin and lack of wealth and following. He amazed the Conclave by "accidentaly" receiving the necessary two-thirds vote. On 8 January, 1335, he was enthroned as Benedict XII.
WI instead of the "accidentaly" elected Benedict XII another Cardinal is made Pope? How is this altering History? Any thoughts?
WI instead of the "accidentaly" elected Benedict XII another Cardinal is made Pope? How is this altering History? Any thoughts?