The french king was able to defy the pope because the king inherited his authority from a powerful father. believed himself to be independent of the church. conquered large territories and ruled with firm control. created a strong national identity and a central government.

The correct answer is "created a strong national identity and a central government."

The relationship between France and the Church began in 800 when Pope Leo III crowned Charlemagne as Holy Roman emperor. However, the relationship between both the Church and the French crown suffered several lows and highs throughout the years. The issue of the Edict of Nantes in 1598 signaled more freedom of practice for the Protestant movement. The further events of the French Revolution and the ascension of Napoleon created more distance between the Crown and the Church.

because it !

a. always outside of government control.