One of the most influential figures of modern times

Pope John Paul II, who died today aged 84, will be remembered as one of the greatest communicators and most influential figures of modern times.

Born Karol Jozef Wojtyla on May 18 1920, he was a Pole who became the first non-Italian to rule the Vatican in 450 years, living to mark his silver jubilee in office on October 16, 2003.