Gulf of Mexico Renamed to Gulf of America in Google Maps

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 11, 2025 — The body of water formerly known in the United States as the Gulf of Mexico has been officially renamed to the Gulf of America on Google Maps. This change comes after an executive order signed by President Donald Trump aimed at honoring ‘American greatness.’

As of now, users accessing Google Maps within the U.S. will see ‘Gulf of America,’ while those in Mexico will still see ‘Gulf of Mexico.’ Users in other regions will encounter both names. The adjustments are part of Google’s policy of updating geographical names in accordance with official government sources.

The announcement of the renaming followed an executive order signed by Trump on Inauguration Day, January 20. As part of this order, Trump stated that the Gulf has played a significant role in American history and is critical to the nation’s economy.

Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior, announced on February 9 that the Gulf’s name change to the Gulf of America had been implemented. “It’s official! Congratulations on the Gulf of America!” Burgum said on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

Historically, the Gulf of Mexico has been recognized as a vital natural resource, supporting various industries and ecosystems. The Gulf is bordered by five U.S. states: Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas, along with Mexico to the west and Cuba to the south.

The announcement stirred mixed reactions, particularly on social media. Critics have expressed concern over the politicization of geographical names, while supporters argue it reflects a renewed national identity.

Google Maps will continue to display both names internationally, a practice that aligns with how geographic features are officially recognized across different countries.

In related developments, the Federal Aviation Administration and U.S. Coast Guard are also in the process of updating their respective data and charts to reflect the Gulf of America’s new designation.

Former President Barack Obama had previously named the area Denali as a tribute to the native Alaskan community, but this change has not yet been applied to Google Maps following the new executive order.

The move is part of a broader initiative by Trump aimed at reinstating historically significant names that honor American heritage. Proponents of the change highlight the need for a strong American identity, while others caution against disregarding established names that have long been in use.

As discussions continue regarding place names and their implications, the future of the Gulf of America’s designation remains a topic of debate among lawmakers, residents, and historians alike.