Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for the fifth of May, is a widespread U.S. celebration of Mexican heritage and culture. Many people confuse the day for Mexican Independence Day, which is actually on September 16 when war was declared against the Spanish colonial government in 1810.
However, the original day of celebration was attributed to the Mexican army’s victory over France in the Franco-Mexican War. The Battle of Puebla Day occurred when the naval forces of France attempted to take over Mexican territory.
Mexico was struggling with its financial debts and couldn’t pay Britain, Spain or France. While the other countries were willing to negotiate, France decided to take over the land sending thousands of troops into Veracruz, Mexico. The Mexican army only had about 2,000 men to fight in the one-day battle that took place on May 5, 1862.
Led by the Texas General Ignacio Zaragoza, the Mexican army came out victorious. The victory became a symbol of Mexican unity, resilience and strength. To date, the day is celebrated widespread in the United States, more-so than it is in Mexico. The day is not a federal holiday in Mexico and is usually observed in Puebla over other states in the country.
Cinco de Mayo became popular in the U.S. during the 1960s when Chicano activists recognized the day. Celebrations in the form of fiestas, parades, cooking and music festivities are common ways that people honor the day.
This year, Cinco de Mayo falls on “Taco Tuesday”, another reason to chow down on some great food in honor of a community of people that have greatly contributed to society and culture.
