So, was Peter really the first pope? This question is pretty crucial for understanding how the Roman Catholic Church got its start. Let's break it down with some historical and scriptural evidence that both point to Peter's key role.

Historical Evidence

1. Clement of Rome (around 96 AD): Clement, one of the early popes, wrote a letter to the Corinthians where he talks about the apostles appointing bishops as their successors. He mentions Peter and Paul specifically in Rome, hinting that Peter had a big part in setting up the Church's leadership there.

2. Ignatius of Antioch (around 110 AD): In his letter to the Romans, Ignatius calls the Church in Rome "presiding in love." This phrase suggests that the Roman Church had a leading role among early Christians, likely because of Peter’s influence. Ignatius’s shoutout shows how important Peter’s impact was.

3. Irenaeus of Lyons (around 180 AD): In his work "Against Heresies," Irenaeus says that Peter and Paul founded the Church in Rome and made Linus the first bishop. This supports the idea that Peter was crucial in setting up the leadership in Rome, starting the line of bishops.

4. Eusebius of Caesarea (around 325 AD): Eusebius, in his "Ecclesiastical History," writes that Peter was the first bishop of Rome. This early history book is key for tracing the papacy back to Peter. Eusebius's account helps solidify the tradition of Peter being the first pope.

5. The Liber Pontificalis (4th century AD): This early collection of papal biographies lists Peter as the first Bishop of Rome and gives details about his time in office and his martyrdom. It’s a historical record that backs up Peter’s primacy and the succession of bishops starting with him.

Scriptural Evidence

1. Matthew 16:18-19: Jesus tells Peter, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church." He also gives Peter the "keys of the kingdom of heaven." Many see this as Jesus making Peter the leader of His church, giving him a unique authority. 

2. Luke 22:31-32: Jesus says to Peter, "Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." This shows Jesus giving Peter a special role to lead and strengthen the other apostles.

3. John 21:15-17: After His resurrection, Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves Him and each time tells Peter to "feed my lambs" and "take care of my sheep." This is seen as Jesus giving Peter the responsibility to look after His followers, making him a key leader.

4. Acts 1:15-26: Peter steps up and leads the apostles in choosing a successor to Judas Iscariot. This shows his leadership role among the early Christians and his authority in making important decisions.

5. Acts 15:7: At the Council of Jerusalem, Peter speaks decisively about Gentile converts, and his opinion carries significant weight. This indicates his authoritative position in the early Church and how his judgment was crucial in resolving key issues.

Putting all this together, it's clear that both historical writings and scripture highlight Peter’s major role in the early Church, setting the stage for the papal tradition that followed.