The election of a new pope is a highly significant event, marked by a unique history and process that draws attention worldwide. Currently, Catholic cardinals from around the globe are gathered in Vatican City for the conclave that will decide the successor to Pope Francis. While the first day of voting did not produce a new pope, recent trends show that conclaves have become quicker, typically spanning two to three days. Historically, conclaves were lengthy affairs, sometimes lasting months or even years. The last time a conclave extended beyond a week was nearly 200 years ago. The longest conclave in modern history occurred in 1831, taking 51 days to elect Pope Gregory XVI, while the lengths of past elections before formal rules were established were even more protracted, with the most drawn-out process lasting over two years in the 13th century.
Along with the election process, newly elected popes choose a papal name, a tradition in place for the last thousand years. Pope Francis, elected in 2013, was the first pope to adopt this name, in contrast to the more common name “John,” which has been used by over 20 popes. Regarding age, Pope Francis was the second-oldest pope in the last 400 years at the time of his passing, with more than 30 popes since 1600, nine of whom were over 70 when elected. An increasing number of popes are serving into their 80s, reflecting a trend of aging within the papacy. As the conclave progresses, the world watches closely to see who will be the next leader of the Catholic Church.
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