Subsequently, the Western Schism created by the selection of a rival pope forced the people of Europe into a dilemma of papal allegiance.

The factions that had formed during his rule as pope split decisively from one another and each appointed a rival pope.

For a time, like many ecclesiastical offices in the West, it had rival contenders who were supporters or protégés of the rival popes.

He opposed Maurice of Braga, the imperial rival pope to Gelasius II, in 1118.

In 1046, Henry III deposed three rival popes.

But two rival popes were made in quick succession, and the coup collapsed in a welter of blood and barbarity.

He let himself be made a rival pope, one of the first antipopes.

They acted as rival popes, both in Rome, and their factions plunged the city into tumult.

In the meantime, the two rival popes were ordered to leave Rome.

In 1378, a schism developed in the church, with rival popes based in Avignon and Rome.