Google Maps Renames Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America Following Executive Order

In a significant update, Google Maps has renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America for users in the United States. This change aligns with Executive Order 14172, signed by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, which mandates the renaming of certain geographical features to honor American heritage.

Implementation of Executive Order 14172

Executive Order 14172, titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness,” directs the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America within U.S. federal usage. The order emphasizes the importance of recognizing American contributions and heritage in geographical nomenclature.

Google Maps’ Compliance with the Executive Order

Following the executive order, Google announced its compliance by updating its mapping services. For users within the United States, the body of water previously labeled as the Gulf of Mexico now appears as the Gulf of America. In Mexico, the original name remains, while international users see both names, with the new designation in parentheses.

International Reactions and Diplomatic Responses

The renaming has elicited varied international reactions. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum sent a letter to Google, urging the company to adhere to United Nations guidelines and retain the original name. She emphasized that the renaming could only apply within the U.S. territorial waters, referencing international law.

Historical Context of the Gulf’s Nomenclature

The Gulf of Mexico has been recognized by its current name since the mid-17th century. Early European explorers referred to it by various names, including the “Sea of the North” and the “Gulf of Florida.” The name “Gulf of Mexico” became predominant over time and is officially recognized by the International Hydrographic Organization.

Public Opinion and Polling Data

Public response to the renaming has been mixed. A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 25% of respondents approved of the change, while 70% disapproved, making it one of the less popular executive actions of the Trump administration.

Conclusion

The renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America on Google Maps reflects the implementation of Executive Order 14172 and highlights the complex interplay between national policies and international perspectives. As digital platforms like Google Maps adapt to governmental directives, the reactions from global communities underscore the importance of considering historical context and international consensus in geographical naming conventions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Executive Order 14172?

Executive Order 14172, titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness,” is an order signed by President Donald Trump directing the renaming of certain geographical features, including changing the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America within U.S. federal usage.

How has Google Maps implemented this change?

Google Maps now displays the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America for users in the United States. In Mexico, the original name remains, while international users see both names, with the new designation in parentheses.

What has been the international response to this renaming?

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has formally requested that Google retain the original name, citing international law and emphasizing that the renaming could only apply within U.S. territorial waters.

Is the name change legally binding internationally?

The renaming applies to U.S. federal usage and within U.S. territorial waters. Internationally, the name Gulf of Mexico remains recognized, and the change does not have binding authority beyond U.S. jurisdiction.

How have other organizations responded to this change?

Organizations and media outlets have varied in their responses, with some adopting the new terminology in U.S. contexts and others retaining the original name, especially in international or multicultural settings.

What does this mean for future geographical naming conventions?

This development highlights the influence of governmental directives on digital platforms and may set a precedent for how geographical names are presented, balancing national policies with international recognition and historical context.

From IkersonLTD