Cinco De Mayo is celebrated every year on May 5 to commemorate the victory of the Mexicans over the French in the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War in 1862.

The term ‘Cinco De Mayo’ is a Spanish phrase that translates to “the fifth of May”.

The day has become more popular in the United States than in Mexico, and it serves as a commemoration of Mexican culture in America.

Cinco De Mayo History: The Battle of Puebla

After the Mexican-American War and the Reform War, Mexico found itself near bankruptcy and unable to pay its debt to some European governments including Spain, England and France.

President Benito Juárez declared that the debt payment be put on hold for two years in 1861. This angered Spain, Britain, and France who sent convoys to Veracruz demanding to be paid back.

Juárez managed to negotiate with Britain and Spain but Napolean saw this as an opportunity to establish a French empire in Mexico. He wanted to gain influence in American territories.

So, in late 1861, French troops attacked Veracruz leading President Juárez and his government to retreat. However, the 8000 soldiers encountered strong resistance in Puebla, while making their way to Mexico City.

After learning of the attack at Puebla, President Juárez ordered 4000 men to fortify the town and forts of Loreto and Guadalupe.

Even though Mexicans were under-prepared and the French were heavily armed, the French were forced to retreat by early evening with a loss of approximately 500 soldiers. This victory gave the Mexicans a great morale boost and strengthened their resistance, as well as their sense of community and patriotism.

The Beginning of Cinco de Mayo Celebration in the US

Cinco de mayo celebrations began in California in 1863 at the hands of Mexican miners who were residing here and wanted to celebrate the victory. Cinco de Mayo became known all over the country in the 1940s during the Chicano movement. However, it became even more popular in the 1980s.

Today, celebrations take place all over the US with bigger events in large cities such as Los Angeles, Houston, San Francisco and Chicago. The celebration emphasize Mexican culture, food, and music.

Source: calendar.com