Pius IX was the longest-reigning Pope in modern history, serving from 1846 until his death in 1878. Some synonyms that are commonly used to refer to him include Pope Pius IX, Pio Nono, or simply Pius. He is remembered for his deep devotion to the Catholic Church and his conservative views on many social issues, including the role of the church in government and the rights of religious minorities. However, he also oversaw significant reforms during his long pontificate, including the adoption of the doctrine of papal infallibility and the creation of Vatican City as an independent sovereign state.