AP World History

Answer - D - One of the main causes of the decline of papal authority during the late Middle Ages was the high mortality rate during the Black Death.

Key Takeaway: As a result of the huge mortality rate brought on by the Black Death in Europe, a great spiritual malaise fell upon Europe. Populations became disenchanted with the Church and its leaders, feeling like their prayers for a cure and salvation for themselves and their loved ones went unanswered. This crisis of faith led to a decline in the authority of the Church and its leaders over the European peoples.