Cinco De Mayo

What do you think of when you hear Cinco De Mayo?

Immediately, images of mariachi bands, piñatas, and tacos come to the American mind. While these, along with parades and Mexican folk dancing, might be common festivities associated with Cinco De Mayo in major American cities, Cinco De Mayo is actually not a very significant day in Mexico.

Picture via Flickr by Angela Radulescu

Contrary to the common misconception, the fifth of May is not Mexico’s Independence Day. May fifth is actually the day General Ignacio Zaragoza defeated the French in the Battle of Puebla. General Zaragoza led his ragtag army of 2,000 against the well prepared 6,000 French troops in the small town of Puebla de Los Angeles.

This was not a major victory in the overall war against France, but was an extremely symbolic victory and added support to the resistance movement. In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is only observed in a few locations, like the state of Puebla. The celebrations include military parades, reenacted battle scenes, and other events.

However, the day is not a federal holiday.

Picture via Flickr by Memorial Student Center Texas A&M University

In America, this day was popularized by Chicano activists in the 1960s, because they related to the unlikely victory of Zaragoza over European invaders. Today it is a reason to celebrate Mexican culture and Heritage.

So, why miss such a great opportunity to experience the unique culture of our neighboring nation?