When 69-year-old Chicago native Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the new head of the Catholic Church, it marked a groundbreaking moment in history: for the first time, an American had ascended to the papacy.

But it wasn’t just the election itself that captured global attention—it was also the name he chose: Pope Leo XIV. To many observers, this wasn’t just a nod to tradition but a deliberate choice with symbolic weight.

Making history

For several days, anticipation mounted as the world watched the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, waiting for the telltale puff of white smoke. On May 8, that moment arrived. Smoke signaled that a decision had been reached, and minutes later, the red velvet curtains of St. Peter’s Basilica parted to reveal the Church’s new leader.

Although Robert Prevost’s name had been circulating among papal candidates, he wasn’t considered the leading contender. Several other cardinals were viewed as frontrunners but failed to secure enough support. Ultimately, the conclave’s 133 cardinals selected Prevost as a compromise figure—someone capable of bridging divides within a Church grappling with ideological tensions across continents.

Relationship with Trump

Pope Leo XIV’s American roots have added to the excitement, especially among the more than 50 million Catholics living in the U.S. His election has even prompted speculation that he could rival Donald Trump for public attention, at least within certain circles.

Former President Trump didn’t waste time reacting to the historic moment. Taking to Truth Social, he congratulated Prevost and called it a “great honor” for the United States.

“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope… What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country,” Trump wrote, adding that he hoped to meet the new pontiff soon.

Later, when speaking to the press, Trump confirmed that the pope’s team had already reached out to him. “They’ve already called,” he said. “We’ll see what happens.”

While it remains uncertain how their relationship might unfold, Prevost’s selection as a compromise candidate may suggest that he could appeal to a broad swath of the Catholic community—conservative Americans, as well as progressive voices in Europe, Latin America, and Asia.

The name

Choosing the name Leo XIV sends a clear message. Every pope since the 16th century has adopted a new name upon their election, typically one that reflects the legacy or values of a previous pontiff. In this case, it’s widely believed that Pope Leo XIII, who led the Church from 1878 to 1903, inspired the choice.

Leo XIII is remembered for his advocacy of workers’ rights, most notably through his encyclical Rerum Novarum. The document called for fair treatment of laborers, the right to form unions, and decent working conditions, while also upholding the principles of private property and entrepreneurship.

He was often called “the worker’s pope” and is viewed as the father of the Church’s modern social teachings.

Father Vito Crincoli told ABC News, “Historically, Popes named Leo were strong, compassionate leaders. Leo XIII saw dignity in work and refused to see people as machines. It would be fascinating to learn more about why Pope Leo XIV chose this name.”

Fluent in Italian and Spanish

In both tone and priorities, Pope Leo XIV may echo Pope Francis, especially in his commitment to supporting the poor and advocating for the marginalized. His first public speech highlighted themes of compassion, justice, and unity, and extended a welcome to people of all faiths and backgrounds.

Still, there are indications that he holds more conservative views on some social issues. He has spoken out against same-s3x marriage and remains cautious about expanding the role of women in Church leadership.

Before becoming pope, Prevost served as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru and previously led the Augustinian order worldwide. He’s fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian, and often teaches in all three languages.

Born and raised in Chicago, he studied mathematics at Villanova University, demonstrating an early interest in intellectual rigor even before entering the priesthood.