Throughout the 20th century, only two conclaves lasted up to five days − Pope Pius X's election in 1903 and Pope Pius XI's election in 1922.

Still, it was an exciting moment for the Americans who were at the Vatican that day. Mariner says he and his wife were in a restaurant in Rome at the time, surrounded by dozens of U.S. citizens. When the new pope was announced, Mariner heard many of the patrons joyfully exclaim, “He’s an American!”

The chimney of the Sistine Chapel, used to signal the election of a new pope, was dismantled on Saturday as faithul continued to flock to St.

The school's students and staff expressed shock and excitement following the recent election of the first-ever American pope.

Just days ago, the election of a US-born pope seemed almost impossible. But those gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday knew exactly what to expect – a pontiff who was born in Chicago, shaped in Peru and well-experienced in Vatican leadership.

Robert Francis Prevost from Chicago became Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American to hold the position. Donald Trump claimed his influence in the Vatican's decision. Trump criticized ABC News for downplaying his role.