Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S. pope, descends from Creole and free people of color in Louisiana, highlighting complex issues to race and class in American history.

“CBS Mornings” went straight to Pope Leo’s family to confirm Honora’s discovery. In a May 9 interview, the new pontiff’s older brother, John Prevost, told host Gayle King that he’s not completely sure about the family’s Black connection because it wasn’t something they frequently talked about.

The pope's Creole roots in New Orleans are a source of pride among the city's Black Catholics. But the revelation also recalls a painful chapter in the city's past. “In New Orleans, everyone treats visitors as family.

"I was in at least two or three philosophy classes with him, and from that experience I can, and I’m going to betray my Philadelphia roots and become a New Englander, I can tell you he is wicked smart!

"He is an American, but he's an American who has a really international experience," said an assistant professor at St. Louis University.

Pope Leo XIV's family tree reflects America's complex racial history, according to records obtained by ABC News.

The American sports world immediately latched onto this connection, specifically regarding the New York Knicks' ongoing NBA playoff run. The Knicks currently lead the defending NBA-champion Boston Celtics 2-0 after stealing two wins at the TD Garden.