What is Cinco de Mayo All About?: The History Behind the Mexican Holiday

Photo courtesy of ThoughtCo

By: Xitlally Velasco

A common misconception is that Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence Day; it’s not. Cinco de Mayo is a celebration to recognize Mexico’s remarkable victory against the French during the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The day became a symbol of Mexican pride, resilience, and determination.

In 1861, Mexico was struggling with financial issues, so they were forced to make negotiations with France, Britain, and Spain. These European countries eventually sent naval forces to Veracruz, demanding repayment. Britain and Spain withdrew after coming to an agreement with Mexico. However, France, which was ruled under Napoleon III, took the opportunity to attempt to conquer Mexican land.

France sent 6,000 of their troops, equipped with heavy artillery, to attack Puebla de Los Angeles, confident that it would be an easy win against Mexico’s poorly supplied men. Benito Juárez, Mexico’s president at the time, rounded up 2,000 of his most loyal men to fight for their country.

In the end, Mexico achieved the impossible and refused to be controlled by the French. Despite being at a great disadvantage, Mexico lost fewer than 100 soldiers, while France lost nearly 500 soldiers.

For Chicanos, this day holds a special significance as it represents a time when their ancestors stood up against colonialism and oppression. By celebrating Cinco de Mayo, Chicanos can honor their roots, history and cultural heritage. Today, the day is celebrated with parades, festivals, traditional folk dancing, mariachi, food, music, and more. Here in Omaha, the Cinco de Mayo mile-long parade is the No. 1 largest and most diverse in the city, with 50,000 spectators.

Let’s take this day as an opportunity to reflect on our own struggles and triumphs. Remember, we, too, can overcome challenges and achieve great things when we believe in ourselves and stand up for what we believe in.

Viva Mexico!

Xitlally Velasco is a University of Nebraska at Omaha journalism student with a concentration in public relations and advertising and a minor in Psychology. Velasco is the Digital Content Curator at Lozafina Marketing and Public Relations. Send your tips and story ideas to office@lozafina.com