Cinco De Mayo is a holiday that is celebrated annually on May 5th in Mexico and in many parts of the United States. It is a day that commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5th, 1862. In this article, we will explore the history behind this holiday and why it is celebrated.

The Battle of Puebla

The Battle of Puebla was fought on May 5th, 1862, between the Mexican army and the French army. At the time, Mexico was in a state of financial crisis and was unable to repay its debts to European countries, including France. As a result, France sent an army to Mexico with the intention of establishing a French-controlled government.

The Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, was greatly outnumbered and outgunned by the French. Despite this, they were able to defeat the French army at the Battle of Puebla, which is now celebrated as Cinco De Mayo.

Celebrations in Mexico

In Mexico, Cinco De Mayo is primarily celebrated in the state of Puebla, where the Battle of Puebla took place. It is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico and is not a national holiday. However, it is still celebrated with parades, speeches, and military reenactments.

Celebrations in the United States

In the United States, Cinco De Mayo has become a popular holiday, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American populations. It is often celebrated with parades, parties, and traditional Mexican food and drink.

One reason for the popularity of Cinco De Mayo in the United States is its association with Mexican-American pride and heritage. The holiday provides an opportunity for Mexican-Americans to celebrate their culture and history.

Another reason for the popularity of Cinco De Mayo is its commercial appeal. Many businesses, particularly those in the food and beverage industry, use the holiday as a marketing opportunity to promote their products.

Conclusion

Cinco De Mayo is a holiday that celebrates the Mexican army’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5th, 1862. While it is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, it has become a popular celebration in the United States, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American populations. The holiday provides an opportunity to celebrate Mexican-American heritage and culture, as well as a marketing opportunity for businesses.