Goa, May 9 -- In a historic turn, the Catholic Church has elected its first American pontiff: Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago. A 69-year-old with deep missionary roots and a global leadership profile, Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis and is expected to carry forward his predecessor's reforms and commitment to the poor and marginalized.

1. The "Least American" of the American Cardinals

Despite his Chicago origins, Leo XIV spent most of his ecclesial career in Peru, where he was known for his grassroots work in Trujillo and later as bishop of Chiclayo. He speaks fluent Spanish and Italian, and is considered culturally closer to Latin America than Washington.

2. Trusted by Pope Francis

The late Pope Francis held Prevost...