MELLO, Antonio Joaquim de (mel'-lo), Brazil-inn R. C. bishop, born in Itu, 29 September, 1791; died there, 16 February, 1861. He entered the army in early life, but in 1810 resigned and studied theology, being ordained priest in 1814, and acquired soon afterward a reputation as a popular preacher. In 1820 he sided with the Liberal party, and in 1822 he assisted in gaining the independence of Brazil, being an intimate friend of Father Feijo, whom he assisted in the government from 1832 till 1836. From 1840 till 1851 he devoted himself to developing in the country an interest in the improvement of primary instruction. In 1852 he was appointed by Pedro II. bishop of Sao Paulo, and, although he declined, on account of his advanced age, the emperor insisted, and he accepted. During his administration the seminary of the diocese and the College of the Irmas de Sao Jose were founded.