Cinco De Mayo

Cinco De Mayo History

Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of the Mexican Army's victory over France during the French and Mexican War of 1862. The French army marched toward Mexico with the hopes of establishing a second Mexican empire. In the city of Puebla, Mexican general Ignacio Zaragoza was able to successfully beat the French army. Cinco de Mayo commemorates this victory.

Cinco de Mayo is mostly celebrated in the United States as a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. It was first celebrated in 1863 in California and eventually grew in popularity in the 20th century as marketers sought to capitalize off the day. In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is considered a ceremonial holiday with marches or military parades. The city of Puebla usually holds a festival as well. This day is celebrated annually on the 5th of May.