Context:

Cardinal Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, defied expectations by becoming the first American pope, a decision that surprised many due to the traditionally European-dominated College of Cardinals. Prevost's extensive international experience, particularly his two decades in Peru where he served in various roles and became a naturalized citizen, may have contributed to his acceptance as an international figure rather than merely an American candidate. His election was influenced by the appointments made by Pope Francis, who had appointed the majority of the cardinals, many from non-European countries, thereby potentially favoring someone with a diverse background like Prevost. Prevost's role as the head of the Vatican department responsible for bishops allowed him significant exposure to many bishops, enhancing his visibility and credibility as a papal candidate. The shifting global influence of the United States, perceived to be waning under the Trump administration, may have also played a role in making the idea of an American pope more palatable to the cardinals, despite historical resistance to such a choice due to the country's global power status.

Dive Deeper:

• Cardinal Robert Prevost, known as Leo XIV, became the first American pope, a choice that defied the common belief that an American would never be elected due to global power dynamics and the European dominance in the College of Cardinals.

• Prevost's life and work largely outside the United States, particularly his significant contributions in Peru where he served in various ecclesiastical roles and became a naturalized citizen, positioned him as a more international figure in the eyes of the cardinals.

• The influence of Pope Francis, who appointed a significant portion of the cardinals who voted, many of whom were not from Europe and had not previously established strong connections, likely favored a candidate with a diverse background like Prevost.

• Prevost's tenure as the head of the Vatican department overseeing bishops provided him with substantial interaction and visibility among many bishops, which could have strengthened his candidacy during the conclave.

• The declining global influence of the United States under the Trump administration, characterized by a retreat from international alliances and responsibilities, may have made the concept of an American pope more acceptable to the conclave, as it reflected a potential shift in geopolitical power dynamics.