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The name of the Gulf of Mexico varies depending on the location from which the Google Maps platform is accessed. While in some regions it continues to appear with its usual name, in others it has been replaced by Gulf of America.
The change is due to the fact that on January 20, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, signed Executive Order 14172, titled "Restoring Names that Honor American Greatness", which instructs the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to "Gulf of America" in official U.S. documents and maps.
Trump argued his decision by stating that this new name is more appropriate and encompasses a broader territory. Although the proposal has been deemed outrageous, it has the support of some members of the Republican Party.
In response, Google announced that it would update its Google Maps platform to reflect this change. Users in the United States will see the name "Gulf of America," while in Mexico and other parts of the world, "Gulf of Mexico" or both designations will remain.
The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, expressed her disagreement with this measure and sent a letter to the CEO of Google, Sundar Pichai, arguing that the name "Gulf of Mexico" has been internationally recognized since the 17th century and is supported by bilateral treaties between Mexico and the United States.
Sheinbaum emphasized that a country does not have the authority to unilaterally change the name of international waters and requested Google to maintain the original designation on its platform.
This change has sparked debate and diverse reactions in both countries. While some in the United States support the measure as a way to emphasize national identity, in Mexico and other nations it is seen as a unilateral action that does not respect the historically and internationally recognized nomenclature.
Recently, Trump signed a proclamation declaring February 9 as "Gulf of America Day". The proclamation urges public officials and American citizens to commemorate this date with appropriate programs and ceremonies, although specific activities were not detailed.
Additionally, the executive order requests that digital mapping services, such as Google and Apple, update their platforms to reflect the new name of the gulf.
The Gulf of Mexico is one of the main bodies of water on the American continent and holds significant geostrategic importance.
These actions are part of a series of measures by Trump that impact Latin America, including attempts to regain control of the Panama Canal and increased tariffs on Mexico and Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Name Change of the Gulf of Mexico
Why does Google Maps show the name "Golfo de América" in some regions?
Google Maps reflects the name change of the Gulf of Mexico to "Gulf of America" in some areas due to an Executive Order signed by Donald Trump. This order instructs the name change in official documents and maps of the United States, and Google has decided to adhere to the U.S. government's policy regarding name updates on its maps.
How has Mexico reacted to the name change of the Gulf of Mexico?
The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, expressed her disagreement with the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to "Gulf of America". Sheinbaum argued that the name "Gulf of Mexico" has been internationally recognized since the 17th century and is supported by bilateral treaties between Mexico and the United States. Additionally, she emphasized that a country does not have the authority to unilaterally change the name of international waters.
What does the proclamation of the "Gulf of America Day" mean?
The "Gulf of America Day" was proclaimed by Donald Trump to commemorate the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to "Gulf of America." This proclamation urges public officials and the American public to commemorate this date with appropriate programs and ceremonies, although no specific activities were outlined. The proclamation was made while Air Force One flew over the newly renamed gulf.
How will this name change affect diplomatic relations between the United States and Mexico?
The renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to "Gulf of America" could create diplomatic tensions between the United States and Mexico, as well as with other countries that share a coastline with the gulf. The change is seen as a unilateral imposition that does not respect the historically and internationally recognized nomenclature. Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed her opposition to this measure, which could adversely affect bilateral relations between both countries.
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