Video Leo XIV makes history as the first American pope
On “This Week,” ABC News’ Chief International Correspondent James Longman reports on the first American pope.
amp.abcnews.comHere’s what’s known about Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, based on recent reporting:
- The pope elected in 2025 is Cardinal Robert Prevost, who took the name Leo XIV and became the first pope from the United States.[1][2][3]
- His election followed the papal conclave at the Vatican, with the white smoke signaling the selection and his appearance on the loggia to confirm the new pontiff.[2][4]
- Coverage described Leo XIV as the first North American pope and noted his Chicago birth and Augustinian missionary background, with initial remarks emphasizing bridge-building and social engagement.[4][5][2]
- Major outlets (AP, CBS News, NBC/ABC family of networks) highlighted the historic nature of the election, reactions from world leaders, and Leo XIV’s early messages and Mass as pope.[5][7][8][2][4]
- Public perceptions in the reports varied, but he is generally portrayed as a unifying, moderate figure with ties to both North and Latin American contexts, reflecting a unique background for the papacy.[9][5]
If you’d like, I can pull a concise timeline of key events (election date, first Mass, notable public statements) and provide a one-page summary with direct quotes and the latest citations.