Pope Leo XIV is not only the first American to occupy St. Peter's throne, but also the first Peruvian. The election of Robert Prevost, who was granted Peruvian citizenship in 2015, plunged an entire country into jubilation. The new pope has deep roots in Latin America, where he served as a priest and bishop for over two decades. Like his predecessor Francis, Leo XIV is likely to focus international attention on social issues and Latin America. At the same time, his demeanor is characterized by reconciliation and compromise, rather than political infighting.
