Cinco de Mayo, translating to “the fifth of May,” is a holiday that celebrates the date of the Mexican army’s May 5, 1862, victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.
Many people assume Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence day. Although, this is not true and it is not a major national holiday in Mexico because it commemorates the 1862 Battle of Puebla. The focus is more in the state of Puebla with parades and reenactment. Schools, businesses, and banks remain open unlike September 16th, Mexico’s Independence Day.
The war behind Cinco de Mayo started when France invaded Mexico. Mexico was in debt and could not pay European countries back, therefore France decided to take advantage of Mexico and invade them trying to take control. Under French authority, Napoleon III, army troops were sent to Mexico, as he was expecting an easy victory. He wanted to build an empire in the Americas, hence why he invaded.
Here are some reasons as to why he wanted to build an empire in the Americas:
As a result of the war, Mexican forces led by Ignacio Zaragoza fought back at the Battle of Puebla. Even though they were smaller and less resources and equipped, they unexpectedly defeated the French army. Although, this victory didn’t end the war because France eventually took control of Mexico for a few years. The win for Mexico became a symbol of Mexican resistance and pride, which is why Cinco de Mayo is celebrated today. The victory also showed that determination can outweigh power.
SONGS TO ADD TO YOUR CINCO DE MAYO PLAYLIST:
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