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Why was Pope Paul III accused of nepotism?
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Paul III
Paul III, contemporary medallion; in the coin collection of the Vatican Library.
Pope Paul III was accused of nepotism because he used his papal influence to advance the interests of his children and their families.1
The most notable incident cited by historians involved his decision to appoint two of his grandsons, who were still in their teens, to the cardinalate. This practice of favoring relatives for high ecclesiastical office was a significant point of criticism during his pontificate. By the end of his life, it is reported that the Pope expressed repentance for these actions on his deathbed.12