On the fifth of May, many people in Mexico and the United States celebrate Cinco de Mayo. The date commemorates Mexico’s victory over France in the Battle of Puebla.
On May 5, 1862, despite facing a larger and better equipped French force, the Mexican Army prevailed, providing an important boost in morale to the Mexicans in the ongoing fight. While Mexico celebrates its Independence Day in September, the day of the Battle of Puebla is commemorated in some places.
In the United States, home to more than 30 million Mexican Americans, Cinco de Mayo has taken on new meaning. It is a festival of Latino culture. In cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston and Washington, Cinco de Mayo events are held each year. Americans eat and drink traditional Mexican fare. Here is a glimpse of the cultural pride on display during recent years:
