Pope Leo XIV: The Inside Story of the Historic Conclave and the Unexpected American Pontiff

The election of Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV marked a historic moment, making him the first American pope in history. Many cardinals were caught off guard during the conclave when one of the leading candidates, Pietro Parolin, withdrew from the race to support Prevost. According to Sky News, the conclave process is unpredictable, and this time was no exception. Despite his name circulating among some Vatican observers, other cardinals like Pietro Parolin, who would have been the first Italian pope in nearly 50 years, and Luis Tagle, who could have become the first Asian pope, were seen as stronger contenders. However, an internal rift between Tagle and another Asian cardinal, Pablo Virgilio David, weakened their chances, favoring Prevost instead. Additionally, an African candidate faced challenges due to the majority of cardinals appointed by progressive Pope Francis. Although an American pope seemed unlikely given the geopolitical power of the U.S., Prevost managed to draw votes across all groups, including moderate American cardinals, those from South America, and many Europeans. Italian newspaper La Repubblica noted that Prevost ‘attracted cross-cutting preferences, both ideologically and geographically.’ Born in Chicago but having lived 20 years in Peru, Prevost was described as ‘the least American of Americans’ and viewed as suitable for evolving papacy into a more collective form.