this post was submitted on 31 Mar 2026
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That would be for North America,
but I disagree considering where the name America likely came from,
not Albericus Vespucci, but from a Mayan mountainous region named Amerrisque,
"land where the wind blows constantly" and perhaps combined with the Spanish word "rica/rich",
because those mountains were rich with gold at that time.
And I think that name is more fitting than 'Turtle Island' to be honest.
North America has a lot of hurricanes and tornadoes.
And it's rich with resources.
South America needs a rename though.
It is perhaps descriptive, but America is a name that comes from colonizers. We should honor indigenous peoples by using their name for the continent.
Regarding south america, I wouldnt know what to call it.
Would the Mayans agree?
Mayans lived in South America. Here Im speaking about [North America]/ Turtle Island.
Hate to be the akshually guy for such an easy fact, but Maya lived and still live in North America
Ah, my bad.
I dont know what mayans would think about that. What do you think they would think about that?
No idea. I just want to note that the most widespread indigenous languages still in use in North America are Nahuatl and Mayan laguages so if indigneous people were to vote on it they would probably have a lot to say about it.
They might have important things to say about this matter.
Just to make my thinking clear; I view words and names as objects of challenge. If we can argue why we prefer a naming over another, then we should be allowed to use that naming. But that doesnt mean that the naming cant change again. We shouldnt be certain that a word is beyond critique, because oftentimes we cant guarantee it. It is better to swap out words on gut feeling, so that we luminate our view of the world. This will enable us to be challenged on our conceptions and be more open minded.