Cinco de Mayo, which translates to the fifth of May, is a holiday celebrated in Mexico and the United States.
It commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The battle was fought during the Franco-Mexican War, which began in 1861 when Mexico declared a temporary ban on the repayment of foreign debts.
Under the leadership of Napoleon III, the French saw this as an opportunity to establish a French presence in Mexico and install a French-friendly government. However, the Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, defeated the French in a stunning upset, despite being outnumbered and outgunned.
The victory at the Battle of Puebla was a significant morale boost for the Mexican army and helped to rally support for the resistance against the French.
Today, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated as a symbol of Mexican heritage and pride. Festivities typically include parades, traditional food and music, along with dancing and drinking.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
