A Compelling Lead

Cinco de Mayo: A Mexican Holiday Celebrated More in America Than Mexico

A Compelling Lead

Cinco de Mayo, a Mexican holiday celebrated on May 5th, is now celebrated more widely in America than in Mexico. While it is a significant day in Mexican history, the holiday is often misunderstood by Americans and has become more commercialized in the United States.

The History Behind Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862, during the Franco-Mexican War. The Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, defeated the invading French army, led by General Charles Ferdinand Latrille de Lorencez. The victory was a major upset, as the French army was much larger and better equipped than the Mexican army.

The Battle of Puebla is considered a turning point in the Franco-Mexican War and helped to boost Mexican morale. The victory also led to the creation of the holiday Cinco de Mayo, which is celebrated every year on May 5th.