Pope Leo XIV: The History and Symbolism Behind Robert Prevost’s Chosen Name

Habemus Papam! But what does the name signify when it comes to a Pontiff, specifically the new 14th? The white smoke from the Sistine Chapel earlier this evening (08.05.2025) revealed that a new Pope has been elected to succeed Pope Francis – and for the first time, the new Pope Leo is a North American, aged 69, who identifies as progressive rather than conservative. According to analysis by The Guardian, the name of the new head of the Roman Catholic Church, who belongs to the Augustinians, has deep historical roots within the Catholic Church. Some predecessors faced rulers under duress and yielded to their demands. By choosing the name Leo XIV, echoing the legacy of Leo XIII and his encyclical Rerum Novarum in 1891, which addressed workers’ rights, fair wages, safe working conditions, and union participation, the new Pope positions himself as the ‘Workers’ Pope.’ Unlike Pope Francis, known as the ‘People’s Pope,’ Leo XIV aims to become the ‘Workers’ Pope.’ The history of Popes named Leo includes figures like Leo I the Great, who famously met Attila the Hun to prevent an invasion of Rome, and Leo XIII, celebrated for his advocacy of the underprivileged. With experience abroad, including missionary work in Peru, Pope Leo XIV brings a unique perspective shaped by Latin American views on liberation theology. As the Catholic Church in the U.S. faces deep divisions, Leo XIV must navigate between traditionalists and progressives, continuing the mission set forth by Pope Francis: building bridges, defending creation amidst environmental crises, and finding roles for women within the Church.