Context:

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as the first American pontiff, now known as Pope Leo XIV, following a two-day deliberation process by the cardinals. This swift decision indicates a strong initial impression among his peers. Historically, the selection of a pope has not always been straightforward, with some choices proving to be contentious or problematic. The analysis by CNN's James Frater revisits past instances where papal selections faced criticism or were seen as errors. The historical perspective highlights the complexities and challenges involved in the papal election process.

Dive Deeper:

• Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost's election as Pope Leo XIV marks the first time an American has ascended to the papacy, showcasing a significant milestone in the Catholic Church's history.

• The two-day deliberation period among the cardinals suggests a decisive and favorable consensus towards Prevost, reflecting his immediate impact on the conclave.

• Papal elections are historically complex, with previous instances where the chosen pontiff did not meet the expectations or faced significant challenges during their tenure.

• CNN's James Frater delves into historical records to analyze past papal elections that have been perceived as contentious or erroneous, offering insights into the intricate nature of these decisions.

• The process of selecting a pope is fraught with difficulties, and past mistakes serve as a reminder of the potential pitfalls that can arise in such a significant decision-making process.