Can Trump Really Change the Gulf of Mexico’s Name?: QuickTake

Among the flurry of executive orders US President Donald J. Trump signed on Jan. 20, the first day of his second term, is one directing that the body of water historically known as the Gulf of Mexico be renamed the “Gulf of America.” The change aims to upend centuries of convention and is already ruffling international feathers.

But before you pull out your Sharpie and start editing your map, here’s what you need to know.

Why does Trump want to rename the Gulf of Mexico?

In an early January press conference, Trump said of the world’s largest gulf, “We do ...