Donald Trump just signed an executive order to rename Lake Ontario as “Lake America.” This is an inane, outrageous childish act by the quarrelsome, bullying president because Canada, including the province of Ontario, will not kowtow to his wanton autocratic demands. This is destroying a long-time strong relationship with our closest ally and neighbor.
The U.S. Board on Geographic Names and the secretary of the interior should not approve this knee-jerk reaction by an angry petulant president. Most Americans and others around the world, especially all Canadians, will disapprove and ignore this ridiculous attempt at name changing.
Lake Ontario received its historic name in the 17th century when European explorers adopted a local Native American word meaning “lake of shining waters” or “beautiful lake.” Mr. Trump has no right to re-write history.
