Cardinal from Chicago Becomes First American Pope

Robert Prevost, a 69-year-old cardinal from Chicago, has been elected the new pope—the first American in history to assume the papacy. He will be known as Pope Leo XIV, the first to take that name since the 19th century, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency

Appearing on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Leo XIV emphasized unity, dialogue, and inclusivity in his first address. A member of the Augustinian Order, Prevost has deep roots in Latin America, especially Peru, where he served as a missionary and later an archbishop. He also holds Peruvian citizenship.

Ordained in 1982, Prevost was named Bishop of Chicago by Pope Francis and is known for prioritizing marginalized communities. With most cardinals in the conclave appointed by Francis, Leo XIV's election is widely seen as a commitment to continuing Francis' reformist legacy.