What's Behind Trump's Decision to Rename Denali, Alaska's Tallest Mountain?
2025-01-21
The Independent
For centuries, the native Koyukon people of Alaska have referred to the continent's highest peak as 'Denali'. However, in 1896, a European-American gold prospector renamed it 'Mount McKinley'. Recently, Donald Trump has sparked controversy by announcing plans to reverse the name change. The decision has left many wondering about the motivations behind it. With a height of over 20,000 feet, Denali is an iconic natural wonder and a significant cultural symbol. The renaming debate highlights the complex history and geography of Alaska, with keywords like mountaineering, geography, and cultural heritage at the forefront. The move has also raised questions about the importance of preserving indigenous names and traditions.