Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that celebrates Mexican heritage and pride and is celebrated by people of all backgrounds. Most commonly celebrated in the United States, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s unlikely victory over the French during the Battle of Puebla in 1862.
History:
In the spring of 1862, the French army was sent by Napoleon III to invade Mexico and establish a monarchy. This French occupation was opposed by the Mexican forces, who were vastly outnumbered and outgunned. On May 5th, the Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza fought the French forces and won the battle of Puebla. The victory was short-lived, but it was a major morale booster for the Mexican people.
Fun Facts:
1. Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s independence day. Mexico’s independence day is September 16th.
2. The biggest Cinco de Mayo celebration in the United States is in Los Angeles.
3. The holiday is celebrated in the United States more than it is in Mexico.
4. Cinco de Mayo is sometimes referred to as “the day of the Battle of Puebla”.
5. The traditional food for Cinco de Mayo is tacos.
