Google Officially Renames Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America on Maps

In a groundbreaking move, Google Maps has officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America for users in the United States. This change follows a directive from President Donald Trump, who signed an executive order in January 2025, instructing the U.S. Board on Geographic Names to make the adjustment in the U.S. Geographic Names Information System (GNIS).

This change will be visible to users in the U.S. who will now see "Gulf of America" when navigating or searching on Google Maps. The decision to change the name has already sparked debate globally, with many questioning the reasons behind the shift.

Why the Change?

The renaming was part of an effort by the Trump administration to emphasize American ownership over geographical regions traditionally named after neighboring countries. The Gulf of Mexico, historically recognized as part of the Mexico-United States region, will now be referred to as the Gulf of America. This move aims to reinforce national identity and territorial significance.

International Impact

For now, users in Mexico and other parts of the world will continue to see the name Gulf of Mexico on their maps. Google, however, will display both names for international users, recognizing the historical significance of the original name while accommodating U.S. preferences. The dual names will reflect the geopolitical complexity of the region and offer a balanced approach to global recognition.

Reactions to the Decision

The decision has triggered significant discussion. While supporters in the U.S. argue that the name change is a long-overdue acknowledgment of American territorial significance, critics claim that the alteration disregards historical traditions.

In Mexico, leaders have expressed their intention to continue using Gulf of Mexico as the official name, insisting that the longstanding name should not be erased for political reasons.

Conclusion

While the name change is a significant step in terms of geography and international relations, it also raises questions about the role of digital platforms like Google Maps in reflecting or influencing national policies. It is yet to be seen whether other mapping services will follow suit.