Keen to learn but short on time? Get to grips with the life of John Paul II in next to no time with this concise guide. 50Minutes.com provides a clear and engaging analysis of Pope John Paul II. In 1978, to widespread surprise, the Polish cardinal Karol Wojtyla was elected pope of the Roman Catholic Church. In the course of over 26 years as pope, he would modernise the Church and the papacy, making them more visible and accessible, and would play an important role in fighting totalitarianism across the world. His commitment to human rights and religious freedom make him a crucial figure of the 20th century. In just 50 minutes you will: