Cinco de Mayo – Fun Fact

Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is NOT Mexico’s independence day. Mexican independence is celebrated on September 16th.

Mexico had war debts that were owed to Europe and France had come to collect on those debts, using force.  Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican Army’s victory over the French forces of Napoleon III on May 5th, 1862, at the Battle of Puebla.

 

For many Americans Cinco de Mayo means mariachi music, margaritas and great Mexican food.  Most Americans have no idea what is really being celebrated and they default to “Mexican Independence Day”.

 

 

 

*www.britannica.com/topic/Cinco-de-Mayo