The Maya referred to the Gulf as Chactemal, meaning “the red place,” likely referencing the reddish hues of the water at sunset or its fertile coastlines. Indigenous names were often descriptive, reflecting geographical features or spiritual beliefs tied to the environment. Unfortunately, much of this indigenous nomenclature was lost or overwritten during European colonization.
Link. I’m sure there are better ones. Hard to find good sources.
I will continue deadnaming the gulf with the name assigned at birth. It’s just going through a phase.
It probably had names before but what did the Mayans call it?
Apparently…
Link. I’m sure there are better ones. Hard to find good sources.