Everyone knows what May 5, or Cinco De Mayo, means tacos, margaritas, fun, and fiesta. But did you know that without what happened on this fateful day, the United States may have not existed as we know it today? What exactly happened on this day of seemingly endless partying and celebration? Let’s take a deep dive into Mexican-American history! Show
When is Cinco de Mayo 2023?Sweet victory is celebrated with great zeal on Cinco de Mayo on May 5 every year. History of Cinco de MayoLet’s start by clearing the biggest misconception: No, Cinco de Mayo is not the Mexican Independence Day. But, that does not mean it’s less important or notable than it actually is, for the history behind it dawns on the importance of the landscape of North America as a whole. An economically struggling Mexico was intervened by the French for the second time, who had the hopes to gain control of the Latin American country under the rule of Napoleon III. The French General, Charles de Lorencez, directed his army towards the capital of Mexico City, with the intent to overthrow the president of Mexico, Benito Juarez. But things didn’t go as planned, as they encountered heavy resistance, culminating at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Even if their forces had half the numbers of their opponents, the Mexican Army, led by Ignacio Zaragoza, managed to successfully win over the French army at Puebla, a city just 70 miles from Mexico City. Four days later, on May 9, Juárez declared Cinco de Mayo a national holiday. While the battle in itself was not a major strategic win, and the French took control of Mexico in 1864, it served to lift the spirits of resistance forces and helped them to gain an alliance with the Americans to successfully make Napoleon’s forces withdraw. Since it is believed the French would have likely aided the Confederacy at the Civil War, Mexico’s resistance likely changed the history of the United States. Pro-Union Mexican citizens in the state of California heavily celebrated the victory at the Battle of Puebla viewing it as a victory for the Union’s cause, later formalizing and spreading the annual celebrations across all of California, and Mexican-Americans all around. Cinco de Mayo timelineMay 5, 1862 The Battle is Won The Battle of Puebla is held and Mexico triumphs over French forces. May 27, 1862 The First Celebration The first Cinco de Mayo parties in the US take place in Columbia, California as residing Mexican miners get news of the battle. May 5, 1863 Gaining Popularity Formal celebrations happen for the first time in Sonora and spread to other California cities, like San Francisco and Los Angeles June 7, 2005 An Appeal The United States Congress called for the observance of Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo - Survey ResultsIn Mexico, the majority of the Cinco de Mayo celebrations occur in Puebla, where the battle had taken place. People dress up either as French and Mexican soldiers or in colorful outfits to participate in large parades. Patriotic clothing is sold by vendors for people to wear and stalls selling Mexican food are also found everywhere. Although tacos and margaritas are consumed the most on this holiday, as well as mole poblano, which is the official dish of Cinco de Mayo. The battle is also sometimes reenacted for locals and tourists to witness the Mexicans’ grand victory against the French troops. Cinco de Mayo is also observed in the United States. Costume parties are hosted for friends and family, with the colors of the Mexican flag (red, white, and green) used in decorations. Mexican folk music is played and danced to. The celebrations are also taken to the streets with large parades and special promotions on Mexican food. 2,000 – the number of Mexican soldiers who defended the town of Puebla against 6,000 invading French forces. How does Mexico celebrate Cinco de Mayo?The holiday is not formally observed countrywide, but there is still recognition in some parts. It is a full holiday in the states of Puebla and Veracruz, where battle reenactments and poblano culture displays are held. Corn tortillas or flour?Both work! Corn and flour tortillas have different uses: flour tortillas tend to be more flexible, perfect to make burritos and quesadillas, while corn tortillas are gluten-free and filled with nutrients. Fun fact, they’re both Mexican in origin. Who has the best Cinco de Mayo deals?Plenty of chain stores give special Cinco de Mayo offers, regardless if they are Mexican-themed or not. From Del Taco to Taco Bell to your local small family-owned Mexican place, search around and you will find an amazing deal. How to Celebrate Cinco De Mayo 2023
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What activities can you do on Cinco de Mayo?Cinco De Mayo is celebrated in many different ways. Some of the most popular ways are parades, parties, mariachi music, Mexican folk dancing and traditional foods such as tacos and mole poblano!
What are 3 activities done for Cinco de Mayo?In the town of Puebla, Mexico, the origin of Cinco de Mayo, locals dress up as Mexican and French soldiers and reenact the Battle of Puebla. You can also enjoy traditional dances, great food, Mariachi music, and colorful dress and decorations.
What are 4 things people do to celebrate Cinco de Mayo?Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that celebrates the strength and resilience of Mexico by commemorating the Mexican army's 1862 victory over the French in Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. Today, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated all over the world with parades, festivals, folk dancing, fiestas and food.
What games do you play on Cinco de Mayo?Cinco de Mayo Party Games. Mexican Jumping Beans. Mexican jumping beans are native to Mexico. ... . Mexican Hat Dance Relay. The Mexican hat dance, known in Mexico as Jarabe Tapatio, has strong cultural connections to the country. ... . Hot Sombrero. ... . Peso Toss.. |