Pope Leo XIV (Robert Prevost) was previously a cardinal from which country?

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost, holds the distinction of being the first pontiff from the United States. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1955, beginning a journey that would eventually lead him to the highest office in the Catholic Church. His American origins mark a significant moment in the history of the papacy.

Before his election, Prevost spent a considerable portion of his ecclesiastical career serving as a missionary in Peru, where he also became a citizen. This extensive experience in Latin America, where he worked as a bishop in Chiclayo, provided him with a unique global perspective and a deep understanding of the Church's presence in the Global South. His multilingual abilities, including fluency in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese, further reflect his international background.

Robert Prevost was elevated to the rank of cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023. Prior to becoming Pope Leo XIV, he held the influential position of Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, an office responsible for advising the Pope on the selection of bishops worldwide. His election as Pope Leo XIV is considered historic, not only for his American roots but also for the blend of his North American upbringing with decades of pastoral experience in Latin America, making him a truly global figure at the helm of the Roman Catholic Church.