US renames bay and mountain to honor American greatness

The Department stated that under an executive order by President Donald Trump, the Gulf of Mexico will now officially be named Gulf of America, and the highest peak in North America will once again bear the name Mount McKinley.

It was noted that these changes reaffirm the Nation’s commitment to preserving the extraordinary heritage of the US and ensuring that future generations of Americans celebrate the legacy of its heroes and historic assets.

The UІ Board on Geographic Names, under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Interior, is working swiftly to update the official federal nomenclature in the Geographic Names Information System to reflect these changes, which will take immediate effect for federal use.

Gulf of America

Previously known as the Gulf of Mexico, it is one of the most important assets in the history and economy of the country. Stretching over 1,700 miles of US coastline and covering nearly 160 million acres, the gulf is a crucial artery for American trade, energy extraction, and the maritime industry.

The US Department of the Interior noted that from the rich fishing industry, which drives the local economy, to the vast reserves of oil and natural gas that foster innovation and prosperity, the Gulf of America remains a cornerstone of national growth.

Its ports are among the largest and most powerful in the world, connecting American goods to global markets.

"Recognizing the Gulf’s enduring contributions to the economic strength and vitality of the US, President Trump’s directive affirms its central importance to the Nation by officially renaming it the Gulf of America,'" the department stated.

Mount McKinley

Located on the Alaska Peninsula, the peak is the highest point in North America and honors the 25th President of the US, William McKinley.

The US Department of the Interior recalled that President McKinley heroically led the nation to victory in the Spanish-American War, initiating an era of rapid economic growth and territorial expansion for the country. Tragically assassinated while in office, McKinley's leadership and sacrifice remain a testament to American resilience and success.

In 1917, the nation officially honored President McKinley by naming North America's highest peak after him.

"Yet after nearly a century, President Obama’s administration, in 2015, stripped the McKinley name from federal nomenclature, an affront to President McKinley’s life, his achievements, and his sacrifice. The decision to return the peak to its historical name is a meaningful recognition of President McKinley’s enduring legacy," the statement said.

The Department of the Interior also emphasized its commitment to upholding all aspects of President Trump's executive order, ensuring that the names we use reflect the values, sacrifices, and achievements that define our nation.

Trump's geographical claims

Shortly before his inauguration, Donald Trump expressed intentions to make Greenland a US territory. The island, which has been under Danish protection for centuries, gained semi-sovereign status within the Kingdom of Denmark in the latter half of the 20th century.

Trump's allies introduced a bill in the House of Representatives proposing the purchase of Greenland.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that the island's autonomy has the right to decide on its independence.

However, Copenhagen is open to discussing other options with Washington.

Additionally, Trump announced his intention to make Canada the 51st state of the US.