Now that Libya’s Internet is returning, even as that country’s rebel forces firm up their possession of its capital, Tripoli, someone has made one small, but elegant gesture, they’ve renamed a square.
More accurately, they have reversed the name. Renamed “Green Square” by Libyan dictator Moamar Qaddafi, it now shows up on Google Maps under its old name, Martyr’s Square.
Martyr’s Square was the name of the square in Tripoli before Gaddafi regime renamed it. Google says the name change was made by a user late Sunday night, as rebel forces took over the city. It was approved by Google, meaning it was visible to the public, shortly thereafter.
Google says the square’s name has been re-labeled Martyr’s Square, though map users can continue to search using either name to find the location.
Google uses a broad range of sources to keep its maps up to date. This includes public and commercial data providers as well as user contributions.
A user made the change late on Sunday, just as rebel forces rolled into Tripoli. You can search for the square under either name but on the map the square is labeled with its original name.
Names are important. They inspire. They amplify ideals. It’s a little change, but it’s big.
