Imperiali, Joseph Rene

Imperiali, Joseph Rene an Italian prelate of the Roman Catholic Church, was born at Oria, April 26, 1651. Descending from a high family, and enjoying the intercession of great prelates, he took orders in his Church, and was rapidly promoted. In 1690 Innocent XI created him cardinal, and he was sent as ambassador to Ferrara. At the papal conclave in 1730 he came within one vote of being elected the incumbent of the papal throne. He died Jan. 15, 1737. — Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Géneralé, 25:833; Migne, Encyclop. Theol. 30, 1094 sq.