The first American pope is Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was elected the 267th pope and took the papal name Leo XIV in May 2025. He is the first pope from the United States and the Americas after Pope Francis. Born in Chicago in 1955, Prevost has a background that combines American roots and extensive missionary work in Peru. He is known as a global citizen, fluent in multiple languages, and an experienced church leader who emphasizes unity, dialogue, and continuity of reforms initiated by Pope Francis. Pope Leo XIV's election marked a historic first for the Catholic Church and the United States, with his leadership style focusing on missionary work, bridge- building, and engaging with social challenges globally.
