Late Night Live - Separate stories podcast The rogue maps of the world
May 7, 2025
Nick Danforth, a fellow at the Century International research centre and contributor to Foreign Policy Magazine, discusses the curious world of political cartography. He highlights Donald Trump's whimsical map amendments, including his renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, and how these changes reflect deeper societal narratives. The conversation also examines how naming seas can influence territorial sovereignty and international relations. Danforth ties in historical mapping disputes, underscoring their impact on national identities and political landscapes.
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Naming Disputes Reflect Grievances
- Naming disputes over bodies of water usually arise from smaller states feeling aggrieved by powerful neighbors.
- The US engaging in such map renaming is unusual as it is typically the aggressor, not the victim.
US Border Policy Shift Under Trump
- The US historically defended maintaining existing borders and sovereignty post-WWII.
- Trump eroded this by recognizing annexed territories like the Golan Heights, breaking longstanding US foreign policy norms.
Gulf of Mexico Name Origins
- The Gulf of Mexico's name dates back to the 16th century, predating both the US and Mexico.
- Trump's renaming it to 'Gulf of America' is a surreal attempt to recast America as a victim against Mexico, reversing historical realities.