Cinco de Mayo, the fifth of May, commemorates the historic Battle of Puebla, fought in 1862. While it originated in Mexico, the celebration has gained significant popularity in the United States, where it’s often misunderstood as Mexico’s Independence Day, which is actually celebrated on September 16th.

The Battle of Puebla occurred during the French intervention in Mexico, a time when Mexico was facing financial difficulties and had halted interest payments to European countries. In response, France, led by Emperor Napoleon III, aimed to establish a foothold in Mexico. Despite being significantly outnumbered and not as equipped, the Mexican forces, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, defeated the French army at Puebla on May 5, 1862.

This was a pivotal win because while eventually Mexican forces did succumb to the French forces for a time after- the morale and unity was bolstered for the nation of Mexico, and it may have very well changed the path of the US Civil War, which was also occurring at the time. Despite its importance as a symbol of Mexican resistance against foreign intervention, Cinco de Mayo isn’t widely celebrated in Mexico outside of the state of Puebla. Instead, it has become a more significant cultural celebration in the United States, especially among Mexican-American communities.

The rise of Cinco de Mayo in the US can be attributed to various factors. the time of the during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, Mexican-American activists embraced the holiday as a way to celebrate their heritage and culture. Secondly, the commercialization of the holiday by beverage and food companies in the 1980s further propelled its popularity, turning it into a mainstream celebration marked by beautiful and colourful parades, parties, and festivals.

Cinco de Mayo serves as an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to appreciate and celebrate Mexican culture, cuisine, and music.

While Cinco de Mayo originated in Mexico to commemorate a significant and symbolic historical event, its widespread celebration in the United States also reflects the cultural exchange and appreciation between nations, emphasizing the richness of Mexican heritage and its enduring influence on American society. Cinco de Mayo is an opportunity to come together and celebrate life, to celebrate bravery, unity, faith, hope, and the ability to overcome the odds.

Wishing you a happy Cinco de Mayo!