The Path to a New Pontiff

On the outside, the election of a new Pope is a carefully choreographed ritual steeped in Catholic tradition. On the inside, it's often about politics and personalities.

By Jeff Israely/Rome and Kristina Dell/New York Monday, Apr. 11, 2005

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    Paul VI

    John Paul I

    2000

    John Paul II

    ?

    THE VATICAN

    After being locked in the Sistine Chapel all day, the Cardinals get to sleep in a new $20 million hotel at the Vatican. No TV or phone calls allowed.

    CARDINAL CONCENTRATIONS

    With 117 voting Cardinals from 52 countries, the conclave offers up a bewlidering range of possible voting blocs and alliances

    Voting Cardinals U.S. and Canada 14 Latin America 21 Europe 58 Africa 11 Asia 11 Oceania 2

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