By Robin Jones & Alex Semidey
Cinco De Mayo is a celebration of Mexico’s victory of the French in the Battle of Puebla. President Benito Juarez was in a bit of a financial bind and ultimately was forced to default on his debts to the European government.The governments of France, Britain, and Spain (who had colonized different parts of the state) sent troops to Veracruz to demand reimbursement.
All of them except France negotiated with Mexico, so in late 1861 the French stormed into Veracruz forcing Mexico to retreat! The real victory came in 1862 when Mexico defeated 6,000 French troops while only losing 100 Soldiers in Puebla. This battle was known as the Miracle victory and is why we celebrate the holiday.
Cinco De Mayo USA
Cinco De Mayo in the United States became a big thing back in the 1960’s when Chicano Activists raised awareness of the holiday because they Identified with the victory of the indigenous Mexicans (like Juarez) against colonizing forces. The true meaning of the holiday was lost in translation and the meaning transformed into another another big party type holiday!
Ultimately this holiday became a day that Big companies could Make big bank selling things like tacos, tequila and avocados. Americans eat more than 87 million pounds of avocados around the holiday, and imported beer sales increase by 15%
EDUCATIONAL NOTE:
Unless you’re Mexican, please avoid wearing the traditional Mexican garb. Cultures are not costumes but celebrating in the holiday is universal and we should always attempt to correct misconceptions and educate others on the meaning!