Tommaso Martinelli participant in 1878 papal conclave
Cardinalate
He was created Cardinal-Deacon of S. Giorgio in Velabro by Pope Pius IX in the consistory of 22 December 1873.  He was appointed as Prefect of the Congregation of Studies on 12 March 1874.  He opted for the order of cardinal priests and the title of Santa Prisca on 17 September 1875. He was appointed as Prefect of the Congregation of Rites on 18 October 1877. He participated in the conclave of 1878 that elected Pope Leo XIII.  He remained at the Congregation for Rites until he was appointed as Prefect of the Congregation of the Index on 15 July 1878.  He served as Camerlengo of the Sacred College of Cardinals from 15 March 1883 until 24 March 1884.
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