Cinco de Mayo, Spanish for the fifth of May, is observed annually, marking a military victory in Mexico that has gained a broader cultural footprint, particularly in the United States. While often associated with Mexican food and drink, the day commemorates a battle fought over 160 years ago.
The date honors the 1862 victory of the Mexican army over invading French forces at the Battle Of Puebla. A smaller, less-equipped Mexican force defeated a larger French army sent by French Emperor Napoleon III, who sought to claim Mexican territory. This unexpected win provided a morale boost for Mexico during a time of conflict.
A few days after the battle, Mexico's President Benito Juárez designated May 5 as a holiday. However, the observance in Mexico has historically been centered primarily around the state of Puebla where the battle occurred.
In the United States, the observance of Cinco de Mayo began to grow more widely, particularly among Mexican Americans. Historians note that the holiday gained traction during the Chicano Movement of the 1960s and 1970s, serving as a symbol of resistance and cultural identity.
Over recent decades, particularly since the 1980s, Cinco de Mayo has become commercialized in the United States. Celebrations often include parties, Mexican food, and margaritas, leading some to feel the holiday's historical meaning is overshadowed by its Americanized depiction.
Understanding what is Cinco de Mayo requires recognizing this difference in emphasis between Mexico and the U.S. While it is a historical commemoration of a battle in Mexico, it has evolved into a broader cultural celebration in the United States.
This holiday is often confused with Mexican Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16. Mexican Independence Day marks the beginning of Mexico's fight for freedom from Spanish rule in 1810, initiated by figures like Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla. Spain recognized Mexico's independence in 1821.
In Mexico, Independence Day is a central national holiday with celebrations across the country, featuring fireworks and traditional foods. By contrast, Cinco de Mayo is not a widely observed public holiday throughout Mexico.
Recent political discussions surrounding immigration have intersected with the observance of Cinco de Mayo in the United States. Some commentators note the contrast between anti-immigration rhetoric and the commercial celebration of Mexican culture.
Silvia Lugo Garcia, who lives in Mexico, explained the difference in how the days are viewed.
"Our most important celebration is Sept. 16 - that is our Independence Day," she said. "The fifth of May is not the biggest celebration in Mexico - for us it only a (routine) celebration."
