Pope Paul II, originally named Domenico Zane, ascended to the papacy after the death of Pope Pius II. Born in Venice, Zane was perceived as a capable administrator and held various ecclesiastical roles before his elevation to the papacy. His election was finalized during a conclave held in Rome, where the cardinals deliberated on various candidates, ultimately favoring Zane for his strong leadership qualities in a time when the Church required stability and reform.

During his papacy, which lasted until his death in 1471, Pope Paul II focused on enhancing the governance of the Church, tackling administrative issues, and addressing the corruption within its ranks. He was known for his patronage of the arts and his commitment to improve the standards of the clergy. Paul II also faced significant challenges, including the need to address the political conflicts of the time, such as the ongoing struggles between different Italian city-states and the wider implications for Christendom.

In his efforts to bolster the Church’s authority, Pope Paul II also emphasized the importance of the Roman see's financial strength through taxation and reforms aimed at strengthening church governance. Although he did not engage in large-scale reforms as some of his successors would, his leadership style was nevertheless significant in guiding the Church through a pivotal time in its history.