The Gulf of Mexico Renamed to the "Gulf of America

President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14172, officially renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." This directive mandates that U.S. federal agencies refer to the body of water as the Gulf of America, encompassing the U.S. continental shelf area bordered by Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, extending to the seaward boundaries with Mexico and Cuba.

The renaming is part of a broader initiative to restore names that honor American heritage. President Trump emphasized that the Gulf has long been an integral asset to the nation, playing a crucial role in early trade and global commerce. The Gulf's natural resources, including oil, gas, and fisheries, continue to be vital to America's economy.

In conjunction with the renaming, President Trump declared February 9, 2025, as the first-ever "Gulf of America Day," commemorating the significance of the Gulf in American history and identity.

While the name change is official within the United States, it does not compel other nations or international bodies to adopt the new nomenclature. Mexico, for instance, continues to recognize the body of water as the Gulf of Mexico. Major news agencies have also stated they will continue to use the traditional name.

The renaming has sparked discussions about national identity, historical recognition, and international relations. Supporters view it as a reaffirmation of American pride, while critics argue it overlooks the Gulf's shared history with neighboring nations. As the Gulf of America becomes the official term in U.S. federal contexts, its adoption in broader public and international discourse remains to be seen.