Google Maps Renames Lake Ontario 'Lake America' for US Users

Aug 30, 2026

71 min

Aug 30, 2026 15:30

Google Maps renames Lake Ontario 'Lake America' in US — but not Canada

## Controversial Name Change

Google Maps has renamed Lake Ontario to "Lake America" for users in the United States. This change follows an announcement by US President Donald Trump, who declared the renaming as part of his "America First" policy. However, Canadian users will continue to see the traditional name, Lake Ontario, which has been in use since the 17th century.

## Cross-Border Tensions

The renaming has sparked criticism from Canadian officials, who view it as a backward step in US-Canada relations. The move comes amid escalating trade tensions between the two countries, with both imposing tariffs on each other's goods.

## Official Sources

Google stated that the change aligns with the US Geographic Names Information System, the federal database for geographic names. While US users see "Lake America," those in Canada and other countries will see both names on Google Maps.

## Reactions

Ontario Premier Doug Ford criticized the decision, likening it to a comedy skit and warning of the potential economic impact of a trade war. He emphasized that tariffs on Canadian goods could severely affect the US economy, particularly the auto industry, due to the interconnected nature of manufacturing between the two nations.

## Broader Implications

This is not the first time President Trump has renamed geographical features; a similar change was made to the Gulf of Mexico, renamed the Gulf of America, which was also met with resistance from neighboring countries.

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