The Gulf of Mexico

The Gulf of Mexico Will Always Be the Gulf of Mexico—No Matter What You Call It  

Ah, the Gulf of Mexico. A place of rich history, stunning waters, and, apparently, a prime target for unnecessary name changes. Yes, I’ve heard the chatter—the idea that we should slap a shiny new “Gulf of America” sticker on a centuries-old body of water as if that somehow makes it “more” significant. But let’s be clear: the Gulf of Mexico will always be the Gulf of Mexico to me, and no amount of rebranding is going to change that.  

History Matters (And So Do Facts)  

Let’s start with the obvious—this body of water has been known as the Gulf of Mexico since “forever”. Okay, technically since the 1500s, when European maps started calling it that, but you get my point. Indigenous people thrived along its shores long before borders were even a thing, and Mexico itself has been intertwined with this Gulf’s history for centuries. Renaming it would be like trying to convince people that tacos are now "freedom wraps." Just...no.  

You Can’t Erase the Culture  

The Gulf of Mexico isn’t just some anonymous stretch of water—it’s a cultural and economic lifeline for Mexico and the U.S. alike. Coastal cities, vibrant fishing communities, and stunning natural landscapes all thrive because of it. And let’s not forget the stunning Mexican opals mined from the land around it, which (shameless plug) inspired my “Gulf of Mexico Opal Earrings”—a tribute to the waves, the land, and the beauty that doesn’t need a name change to shine.  

A New Name Won’t Make It More “Ours” 

Newsflash: Changing the name doesn’t make the Gulf “more American”. The water doesn’t care about politics, and neither do the millions of creatures living in it. Hurricanes aren’t suddenly going to respect nationalistic branding. And last I checked, the shrimp, dolphins, and coral reefs have no intention of applying for U.S. citizenship.  

Some Things Just Don’t Need a Makeover 

Look, I love a good refresh. A new coat of paint? Sure. A fresh wardrobe for the season? Absolutely. But slapping “Gulf of America” on the Gulf of Mexico is about as necessary as renaming the Grand Canyon the "Freedom Hole." Some things are iconic just the way they are.  

So yeah, go ahead and call it whatever you want. But to me—and to history—it will always be the Gulf of Mexico. And honestly? That’s what makes it great.