Pope Leo Says He Is 'The Pope Who Happens to Be American,' Reflects on Family's History of Slavery

VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo has spoken candidly about his American identity and his family's history.

VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo has spoken candidly about his American identity, telling reporters he considers himself 'the pope who happens to be American'.

He also reflected on his family's documented history of slavery, describing it as a personal reminder of the Church's duty toward justice and reconciliation.

The remarks were welcomed by historians who have researched the pontiff's ancestry.