American cardinal becomes new Pope

69-year-old American-Peruvian Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected as the new Pope.

Vatican News reports that he became the first American pontiff in history.

Robert Prevost was born in Chicago, Illinois, but spent much of his ministry as a missionary in Peru and most recently headed the Vatican's acting dicastery for ministerial duties. He is expected to continue Pope Francis' reforms.

The conclave to elect a new pope began on May 7. In the initial stages, the cardinals could not reach a consensus. They held secret ballots twice a day. The candidate had to receive two-thirds of the votes plus one. After that, he confirmed his consent to occupy the throne of Peter and chose his papal name.

According to sources, six main candidates from the United States, Italy, Sri Lanka, and African countries were considered for the position of Pope.

It is not yet known whether the new pontiff was elected in the fourth or fifth round since the cardinals began voting. In any case, he will be the third pope elected on the second day of the conclave.