May 5th honors the battle victory of 1862.
Every year on May fifth, Americans across the country celebrate Cinco de Mayo — a holiday that is often misinterpreted as Mexican Independence Day. Mexicans actually celebrate their independence on September 16, and Cinco de Mayo is not a national holiday in Mexico. So what is Cinco de Mayo, and why is it celebrated in the U.S.?
The History of Cinco de Mayo?
Cinco de Mayo, which translates to “Fifth of May” in English, is a holiday that aims to celebrate the Mexican army’s victory at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 during the country’s war with France. According to History.com, in 1861, newly-elected Mexican President Benito Juárez was forced to default on debt payments to Europe because the country was in “financial ruin.” In response to Mexico’s default, military forces from France, Britain and Spain were sent to Veracruz, Mexico, to demand payment. British and Spanish forces reportedly negotiated with Mexico and withdrew their people from the country. But France did not.
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Instead, Napoleon III, who was leading France at the time, decided to try to create an empire from Mexican territory. French military members invaded Veracruz in late 1861, forcing Juárez to retreat. The battle moved to the Mexican city of Puebla, where the situation changed for Mexico’s army.
On May 5, 1862, the Mexican army – which was significantly outnumbered by the French army – won an unexpected victory at the Battle of Puebla. Mexico lost less than 100 of its 2,000 men in the battle, while France lost about 500 of its 6,000.
Experts say the Battle of Puebla was not a major strategic victory for Mexico in the Franco-Mexican War, but this unexpected victory served as a symbolic victory for the Mexican government.
France did not withdraw from Mexico until 1867.
Do Mexicans celebrate Cinco de Mayo?
Cinco de Mayo is a relatively small holiday in the country of Mexico. The victory of the Battle of Puebla is celebrated primarily in the city of Puebla, which recognizes the victory through a massive military reenactment. In the rest of Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is not considered a national holiday, so businesses are still open and most people still go to work like any other day.
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However, celebrations are seen in other areas of Mexico, such as in the Penon de los Baños neighborhood of Mexico City. Mexican Independence Day, a different occasion, is celebrated on September 16.
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Why do Americans celebrate Cinco de Mayo?
The small-time Mexican holiday was promoted largely by activists in the United States in the 1960s, partly “associated the holiday with the victory of indigenous Mexicans (such as Juárez) over European invaders during the Battle of Puebla,” says History.com. Many Americans now view the annual holiday as a day to celebrate Mexican culture and heritage.
This holiday is often celebrated through parades, parties, and traditional Mexican foods and drinks. While it is celebrated throughout the United States, Cinco celebrations are especially popular in areas with large Mexican-American populations.
But it is important to remember that this day is not just about margaritas and colorful costumes. If you choose to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, keep in mind the historical significance of the day and the rich history and culture of our neighbor.
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