THE HISTORY OF CINCO DE MAYO

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VIVA MEXICO! VIVA THE USA!

Cinco de Mayo is a holiday created by and for Latino communities in the US celebrating Mexico's victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5th 1862. At the time of this battle, the French Army was actively striving to occupy Mexico City. The French Army (made up of approximately 8,000 soldiers) was met with heavy resistance from the Mexican Army (made up of 4,000 soldiers). The Mexican Army defeated the French Army and their victory brought a significant morale boost and sense of unity to Mexico. The USA provided resources that ultimately aided the Mexican Army in their victory over the French Army, which is why the holiday is widely recognized in both Mexico and the USA.