The Daily Question

In what year did Pope Clement XIII begin his pontificate?


1. 1699
2. 1758
3. 1775
4. 1801

Your answer was: 1801

Answer: The correct answer is 1758. Pope Clement XIII, born Carlo della Torre di Rezzonico, was elected on 6 July 1758 and served until his death in 1769. His pontificate is remembered for his strong defense of the Jesuits during a period when several European powers sought their suppression. Clement XIII resisted intense political pressure from Bourbon courts and refused to dissolve the Society of Jesus, arguing that they were essential to Catholic education and missionary work. His steadfastness made him a significant figure in eighteenth‑century Church history, even though the Jesuits were ultimately suppressed shortly after his death under his successor, Clement XIV.
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