On Wednesday, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum brought attention to a historical name for the territory, suggesting that it should be called "America Mexicana" as a retort to President-elect Donald Trump's recent proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico to "Gulf of America." During her news conference, Sheinbaum referenced a map from 1607, highlighting the area that now includes the United States, Mexico, and parts of Canada, and posed the question of whether "America Mexicana" wouldn't sound appealing.
Sheinbaum's remarks were supported by politician Jose Alfonso Suarez del Real, who noted that the name "America Mexicana" appeared on a European map made for the Dutch East India Company over four centuries ago. Additionally, the term is derived from Mexico's Constitution of Apatzingán, which was crafted during the country's struggle for independence from Spanish colonizers. She emphasized the historical significance of the name, recalling that the Constitution of Apatzingán referred to the territory as "America Mexicana," and declared that it would be fitting to adopt this name.
Moreover, Sheinbaum took the opportunity to counter Trump’s remarks about Mexico being governed by drug cartels, asserting that such views stemmed from outdated information regarding former President Felipe Calderón's administration. She firmly stated, "But no. In Mexico, the people rule," underscoring the country's current political landscape and leadership.
11 Comments
Loubianka
We need leaders who can work together for the greater good, not engage in petty arguments over historical names.
Eugene Alta
This name change could be a catalyst for a wider discussion about historical representation and cultural appropriation.
KittyKat
This name highlights the shared history and cultural connections between Mexico and other nations in the region.
Katchuka
Using historical maps to make political statements is a slippery slope. Let's not distort history for our own agenda.
KittyKat
Can we please stop with the name-calling and focus on finding concrete solutions to the issues that affect our communities?
Mariposa
Time and resources would be better spent on addressing actual issues like immigration and trade, not on renaming exercises.
Muchacho
Instead of focusing on the past, we should be working on building a better future together as a continent.
Leonardo
America Mexicana" is historically accurate and reflects the region's rich cultural heritage.
Coccinella
America Mexicana" is inclusive and encompasses the contributions of all people within the territory, regardless of their origin.
Mariposa
This proposal is a step towards dismantling the harmful stereotypes and biases that have been perpetuated for too long.
Muchacho
The name of a territory shouldn't be used as a tool to divide us. We need more collaboration, not more division.