Joseph Nerval Martínez

Joseph Nerval Martínez was the grandfather of Pope Leo XIV and was born in Haiti. His family migrated from New Orleans to Haiti, reflecting the broader narrative of immigration in America. Notably, he had a complex legacy, as eight of his ancestors were slave owners, while he also descended from a line that included individuals who faced the brutal realities of slavery. His life and heritage contribute to the diverse tapestry of Pope Leo XIV's ancestry, which encompasses multiple countries and cultures.