Achilli, Giacinto: - Italian Dominican friar "Giacinto Achilli" gained notoriety in the 19th century for his critiques and disapproval of the Catholic Church. He was educated in theology and at first joined the Dominican order after being born in Italy. But his views changed, and he broke with the Church as a result. Achilli clashed with church authorities over his divergent opinions and criticisms of Catholic principles, especially those about the Inquisition and the Jesuits. He thus faced imprisonment by the Catholic Church and excommunication from the Dominican order. During an era of significant religious and social upheaval, Giacinto Achilli's life and writings contributed to the larger discourse on the issues faced by people who questioned or broke away from the authority of the Catholic Church. Achilli's activities contributed to bringing attention to institutional problems in the Church, notwithstanding the controversy that surrounded him.