Google Maps will soon change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America for users in the United States. This update follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, during his inauguration. The order mandates updates to federal maps, including renaming several geographical landmarks.
Details of the Name Change
The Gulf of America will appear on Google Maps for U.S. users once the U.S. government’s Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) is updated.
Google stated, “We have a longstanding practice of applying name changes when they have been updated in official government sources.” Users in Mexico will continue to see the body of water referred to as the Gulf of Mexico, while users outside both countries will see both names displayed.
In addition to renaming the Gulf, Google will revert Mount Denali back to its previous name, Mount McKinley, for American users. This aligns with Trump’s directive to honor former President William McKinley, who he credited with significant contributions to America’s wealth through tariffs and talent.
Trump’s Executive Order and Its Implications
Trump’s executive order aims to restore what he describes as a “beautiful ring” to the name of the Gulf.
The announcement has generated mixed reactions. Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski expressed strong opposition, stating that Denali should retain its name as it honors Indigenous heritage.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum humorously critiqued Trump’s initiative by suggesting that North America could be renamed “Mex America” in response to the changes. This light-hearted comment reflects broader concerns about the implications of renaming significant geographical features.
Google’s Naming Policy
Google’s approach to naming conventions varies based on location and political context. For instance, it labels disputed bodies of water differently depending on user location.
This practice is evident in how Google refers to the body of water between Japan and South Korea as both “Persian Gulf” and “Arabian Gulf” based on regional preferences.
As these changes take effect, Google Maps users can expect updates reflecting the new names once they are officially recognized by the U.S. government.
The renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America signifies a notable shift in geographical nomenclature influenced by political decisions.
As Google implements these changes, users will navigate a landscape shaped by both historical significance and contemporary governance.
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