Trump signs executive order renaming Gulf of Mexico and Alaska's Denali mountain

The Gulf of Mexico and Denali receive historic name changes under President Trump's executive order. (Image: Canva)

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump marked his return to office by signing an executive order to rename two iconic American landmarks—the Gulf of Mexico and Denali, North America's highest mountain. This move reflects his commitment to celebrating American heritage, honoring its people, and reinforcing the nation's ties to historical landmarks.

The Gulf of Mexico, soon to be renamed Gulf of America, a crucial hub for trade, oil, and global economy. (Image: Canva)

Gulf of Mexico Renamed to Gulf of America

In a decision with far-reaching effects, the Gulf of Mexico, covering a vast 617,800 square miles, will officially be renamed the Gulf of America. Trump emphasized the Gulf’s pivotal role in shaping the U.S. economy, particularly through its contributions to oil and gas production, shipping, and international trade. As one of the world's busiest and most important bodies of water, the Gulf serves as a crucial economic hub for the U.S. and is home to major ports such as Houston, New Orleans, and Tampa.

Denali, North America's highest peak, reverts to its original name, Mount McKinley, honoring American history. (Image: Canva)

Denali Reverts to Mount McKinley

Another significant change in the executive order is the decision to revert Denali, North America's tallest peak, to its original name—Mount McKinley. Standing at an impressive 20,310 feet, Denali has long symbolized natural grandeur and American geography. In 2015, former President Barack Obama renamed it Denali, honoring the indigenous Koyukon Athabascan heritage.

However, Trump’s order brings the mountain back to Mount McKinley, named after the 25th U.S. President, William McKinley, despite his never having visited Alaska. The decision aims to honor both the mountain’s historical significance and the nation’s leadership legacy.

The name change will take effect in 30 days, though Denali National Park and Preserve, home to diverse wildlife such as bears, wolves, and moose, will retain its original name.

Denali National Park, a stunning blend of natural beauty and diverse wildlife, stands tall with its rich history and heritage. (Image: Canva)

Why These Name Changes Matter

Both the Gulf of Mexico and Denali are deeply intertwined with American culture, economy, and history. The Gulf is vital not only to the U.S. economy through its shipping and oil production but also to environmental sustainability, providing rich marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

Denali, while a natural wonder, holds immense cultural significance for Alaskan Natives. The renaming of the peak back to Mount McKinley has sparked ongoing conversations about balancing American history with the preservation of indigenous heritage. Trump’s executive order mandates collaboration with Alaska Native groups to ensure future landmark names honor the state’s indigenous peoples.

These landmarks are more than just geographical features; they embody the nation's connection to its environment, political history, and diverse people. While the name changes will be celebrated by some, they also symbolize the broader debates about national identity and heritage in the U.S.