Google Maps to Rename Gulf of Mexico as ‘Gulf of America’ for U.S. Users

Google announced it will rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America” for U.S. users on its mapping platform, following an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump. The change will be implemented once updated in the U.S. government’s Geographic Names Information System.

For users in Mexico, the body of water will retain the name Gulf of Mexico, while users outside the U.S. and Mexico will see both names displayed.

Localised naming conventions are a standard practice for Google Maps, particularly in regions with naming disputes. For instance, users in South Korea see the body of water between Korea and Japan labelled as the East Sea, while users elsewhere see both the “Sea of Japan” and the “East Sea.”

Google Maps, used by over a billion people monthly, plays a pivotal role in shaping perceptions of geography. However, its processes for naming are often opaque, influenced by historical context, local laws, diplomacy, and company policy.

The Gulf of Mexico, a vital 218,000-square-mile basin connecting the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, has been recognised by its current name for over 400 years. Despite its deep historical roots, Trump announced the renaming earlier this month, stating, “What a beautiful name, and it’s appropriate,” tying the decision to frustrations with Mexico over immigration and drug trafficking.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum criticised the proposal, suggesting North America could be renamed “Mexican America” in jest, referencing historical documents that used the term before Mexico’s constitution. “That sounds nice, no?” she remarked during a press briefing.