These Fun Facts About Cinco De Mayo Are A Must That You Probably Don’t Know

Mexico is an incredible country. Lately, it has been in the spotlight for probably not the best reasons. But despite the awkward politics and events, there’s something that we all agree on, Mexican culture is awesome. It goes beyond everyone’s love for tacos and burritos and their cuisine. We all dig mariachis, if not for its music for its look, and without a doubt what dazzle us all are the color and explosivity of their parties. Along with the as well colorful and badass looking Catrinas.

Our love for Mexico is so big that many cultural aspects of them have become worldwide famous, and pop culture. One of those worldwide famous events of Mexican culture is “Cinco de Mayo,” and since it’s May we are going to get you ready for it. First by letting you know why it’s celebrated and then some tips for you to enjoy it even more.

The Battle of Puebla

Cinco de Mayo has its roots in the French occupation of Mexico. This took place after the Mexican-American War of 1846 to 1948 and the civil Reform War of 1957 to 1861. Obviously, as all wars, it is really expensive. Leaving the Mexican Treasury nearly bankrupt. The reason why the president of the time Benito Juárez, said on July 17th of 1861, that all foreign debt payments would be suspended for two years. This angered the debt collectors, to what France, England and Spain sent naval forces to Veracruz to demand their payment. Spain and Britain talked out things with Mexico. But a more ambitious France, ruled by Napoleon III, saw it as an opportunity to expand its empire.

Then, in the late of 1861, a well-armed French fleet arrived at Veracruz. The larger, better trained and equipped French army forced the Mexican forces to retreat. The struggling, but resisting, Mexicans move on to defend the road to Mexico City, end up reaching Puebla. Where they created a heavy resistance on the Loreto and Guadalupe forts, as they made a valiant stand. The courage of the Mexicans was awarded, as on May 5th of 1862, they managed to beat the French army, considered “the premier army in the world” at the time.

It didn’t have a happy ending but it brought the spirits high

Sadly the French army regrouped and continued, eventually taking Mexico City. But the glance and euphoria of the against-all-odds victory against the French is what Mexicans remember and celebrate remembered every May 5th.

The victory represented a significant morale boost and symbolic victory to the Mexican army. As it reinforced the resistance movement and turned out to be a symbol of unity and pride for Mexicans. Helping create a much-needed sense of patriotism and national unity, in a David vs Goliath-like situation. But despite the buzz of it “Cinco de Mayo,” is not a national celebration in Mexico. It is very important in Puebla and Veracruz states though. Also, there is a misconception in believing that “Cinco de Mayo,” is the Independence Day of Mexico. But it’s not, it’s on September 16th, as it commemorates the “Cry of Dolores” call. When the country revealed against the Spaniards and won.

Why celebrate it

Ironically, probably for its regional aspect, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated more in the United States than in Mexico. As activist and Mexicans brought the celebration “the States”. California was one of the first states to celebrate the day in the late 1860s. As a response to the celebration of the defeat of the French empire. Where many Mexican miners on the U.S. celebrated patriotically the victory of their compatriots. But the celebration got a rocket impulse in the 1940s thanks to the “Chicano movement” making it popular all across the country.

But the celebration hit its peak during the 80’s. When companies, especially beer ones, used the festive nature of the day and began to promote it, along with their products. The celebration gained more and more popularity and evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. Reaching its current worldwide status. Since now even in Australia, New Zealand, and other South American countries, the festive day is celebrated.

In Puebla and in many cities of the U.S. “Cinco de Mayo,” is celebrated with big parades, dancing, and festivals. Where traditional Mexican food is served, mariachi bands fill town squares, and a lot of beers and margaritas are served. As the festivities focus on celebrating the Mexican traditional lifestyle, in a very family-oriented way. In schools, kids do artsy crafts and decorate classrooms, while they try to learn to cook some classical dishes. All over the world, Mexican restaurants bring in Mariachi bands and special offers.

This year elected president Donald Trump will not hold the White House Cinco de Mayo celebration. Even though it is highly celebrated in the United States. According to La Opinion newspaper. The White House has yet to comment why they decided to break this 16-year-long tradition.

Source: dallasnews.com