Robert Francis Prevost: The world’s first American Pope

A historic conclave has concluded with a new pope, one who is American.

Transcript

00:00Pope? I'd like to be Pope. That would be my number one choice.

00:05We're a little bit surprised, but very happy.

00:08Robert Francis Prevost is the new Pope, starting 9th May of 2025, and will be known as Leo XIV.

00:14In what was a historic day for the Vatican, this is the first time an American will fill in the role of the Pope.

00:20As white smoke erupted from the Sistine Chapel following a short conclave,

00:24crowds below the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica shouted,

00:27Viva il Papa, or long live the Pope.

00:30The 69-year-old is known for his good humor and moderate views.

00:33Until 2025, the idea that the Roman Catholic Church would be led by a U.S. leader was a distant possibility.

00:40After all, the U.S. is predominantly protestant in comparison to Catholic.

00:44Born in Chicago in 1955, the new Pope holds a Peruvian citizenship

00:48and has spent long years of his mission in Latin America.

00:51In his first words as Pope, Leo XIV, spoke fondly of his predecessor Francis.

00:55U.S. President Donald Trump seldom saw eye-to-eye with Pope Francis, but now hails Pope Robert's appointment.

01:02The late Pope had been vocal in criticizing Trump's stance on immigration and building a wall in Mexico

01:07and had even made a rebuke on Trump's faith in Christianity.

01:10He's questioning my faith. I was very surprised to see it, but I am a Christian.

01:14As the world sees turbulence all around, Pope Leo XIV's first words were,

01:18Peace be with you.

01:20La pace sia con tutti voi.