The history of the popes is simultaneously the infinitely dynamic and rich history of Christianity and thus of Western culture. For nineteen hundred years, no worldly or ecclesiastical historical factor has been of equal significance or had such a decisive influence on the fate of humanity as the papacy. Anyone who wishes to understand, assess, and evaluate cultural and secular historical contexts and developments must at least have a general knowledge of the history of the papacy. Now, may our "History of the Popes from the Beginnings to the Present" embark on its journey to all those who wish to form a well-founded opinion not only about the history of the Catholic Church but also about the multifaceted global historical connections that are closely intertwined with it. Our book aims to be indispensable.