Google Maps Renames the Gulf of Mexico for U.S. Users
Google Maps has changed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America for users in the United States. This change follows an executive order signed by Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness.” The name remains Gulf of Mexico for users in Mexico and other countries.
Why the Name Change Happened
Trump insisted that the gulf should reflect American contributions rather than its historical ties to Mexico. He stated that the U.S. does the “most work” in the region and that the new name better represents American influence. The Gulf of Mexico had carried its name since the 17th century.
Google Maps complied with Trump’s order after it was updated in the U.S. Geographic Names System (USGS). A Google spokesperson confirmed the change:
“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.”
Trump Declares ‘Gulf of America Day’
On February 9, 2025, Trump proclaimed the first-ever “Gulf of America Day.” He called on public officials and citizens to mark the day with ceremonies and activities. Trump celebrated the renaming on Truth Social, posting: “GULF OF AMERICA!” alongside a White House statement.
Additional Name Changes in Line with the Order
In accordance with the same executive order, the Alaskan peak Denali will be renamed Mount McKinley. This reverses the 2015 decision by the Obama administration, which had changed the name to honor Alaska Natives. As of Tuesday morning, February 11, the change had not yet taken effect.
FAA and Government Agencies Implement Changes
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that it is updating maps and charts to reflect the new names. The agency stated:
“Please be advised that the FAA is in the process of updating our data and charts to show a name change from the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and a name change from Denali to Mount McKinley.”
These updates are part of broader efforts to reinforce national identity through geographical renaming policies. The changes have sparked discussion about the historical significance of place names and their role in political decisions.
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