On his first day in office, President Trump signed a series of executive orders that included controversial plans to change the names of significant geographical features in the United States. Among these proposals was the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, an initiative that Trump articulated during his inauguration speech, emphasizing America’s need to reclaim its status as “the greatest, most powerful, most respected nation on earth.”
Trump’s move also aimed to restore the name Mount McKinley to Denali, a peak long recognized by the Alaskan Native people as Denali, meaning “the great one.” This name change has sparked criticism, particularly from Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, who noted that the mountain has historically been known as Denali for thousands of years. She urged Trump to acknowledge this legacy instead of reverting to the name honoring former President McKinley.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has expressed her intent to draft legislation to support the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, stating that it is “our gulf” and that the name should reflect the identity of the nation. However, the practicality of implementing these name changes is complicated. While federal references could be changed, other countries, including Mexico, would not necessarily adopt the new names on their maps or in common usage.
It is worth noting that the Gulf of Mexico holds jurisdictional complexities due to the Submerged Lands Act of 1953, which gives coastal states rights to the natural resources in submerged lands extending three nautical miles from their shores. This means that any unilateral naming change could face legal challenges as state and international rights are navigated.
As America moves forward with its ongoing dialogue about identity and heritage, these name changes can be viewed as part of a larger narrative surrounding nationalism and the reclamation of historical narratives. The discussions that arise can hopefully lead to a deeper understanding and respect for the diverse cultures that shape the fabric of the nation.
In summary, President Trump’s executive orders on naming geographical features have reignited debates about national identity and historical recognition, with the potential for dialogue to foster greater appreciation for both American history and Indigenous heritage.