White smoke from the Sistine Chapel on Thursday signaled that the cardinals have selected the next leader of the Catholic Church.

With all eyes now on the Vatican after Pope Francis' death, here's a look at the conclave and its role in electing the next head of the Catholic Church. Francis died at age 88 and was remembered as a "pope among the people.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected Thursday as the first American pope. Here’s what to know about him and his new papal name, Leo XIV.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost – now known as Pope Leo XIV — is the first pope from the United States. The 69-year-old from Chicago is known as a leader with global experience. He spent much of his career as a missionary in South America and most recently led a powerful Vatican office for bishop appointments.