In a controversial executive order, U.S. President Donald Trump has officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, a move that has now been implemented on Google Maps for U.S.-based users.
The change, which took effect on Monday, February 10, 2025, follows Trump’s executive order signed on January 20, declaring that geographical names should reflect “American greatness.”
Google, in a statement confirming the update, said:
“People using Maps in the U.S. will see ‘Gulf of America,’ and people in Mexico will see ‘Gulf of Mexico.’ Everyone else will see both names.”
Renaming American Landmarks: A Political Statement?
Trump’s renaming spree doesn’t stop with the Gulf of Mexico. Reports indicate that he has also ordered Mount McKinley’s name to be restored, reversing former President Barack Obama’s 2015 decision to rename it Denali in honor of Alaska’s Indigenous people.
While Google has yet to reflect the Mount McKinley change, the Gulf of America update is already live on U.S. Google Maps, sparking heated debates on social media and diplomatic concerns with Mexico, which has not recognized the change.
Reactions and Implications
Critics argue that Trump’s move erases historical and cultural significance, while supporters hail it as a patriotic rebranding. The Mexican government has yet to issue an official response, but political analysts predict potential diplomatic friction over the unilateral decision.
With Google Maps now reflecting Trump’s directive, the global conversation continues: Is this a bold nationalistic statement or an unnecessary political stunt?
