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Position:Home>History> What does history really say about the Arabian/Persian Gulf?Question:I recently read a petition that is upset about the Persian gulf being called the Arabian gulf by Google earth. But, when I did some research, I discovered that the term "Arabian Gulf" has been used for a very long time. I even discoved book using Arabian Gulf from as far back as 1977.... I'm sure there are even older books using this term if I looked a bit harder..... My point is, why all the uproar by the Iranians now.... and so late? link to the petition; http://www.petitiononline.com/sos02082/p... Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I recently read a petition that is upset about the Persian gulf being called the Arabian gulf by Google earth. But, when I did some research, I discovered that the term "Arabian Gulf" has been used for a very long time. I even discoved book using Arabian Gulf from as far back as 1977.... I'm sure there are even older books using this term if I looked a bit harder..... My point is, why all the uproar by the Iranians now.... and so late? link to the petition; http://www.petitiononline.com/sos02082/p... 1977 is a recent history. The Arabs themselves used to call it the Persian sea for many centuries. The term Arabian Gulf was invented by the Arab nationalists of the 20th century. I personally don't see any problem with both names (Arabian or Persian), but I know Iranians are very proud people. They feel it's offending their identity to call it Arabian Gulf. Keep in mind the move 300 upsets them a lot! It's absolutely Persian gulf I have always known it as the Persian Gulf, same by history, Atlas and other writings. But i originally heard it refer to as the Arabian Gulf back as you mention in the 70's and afterwards on American News, or speakers and i'm sure once or twice in the news papers back then too. So i've just always accepted both. |