Cinco De Mayo!

Cinco De Mayo is perhaps one of my favorite (based solely off of my affinity for Mexican food) under appreciated holidays. In fact, the people of Mexico don't even celebrate this holiday because why would anyone ever celebrate winning a battle and basically losing the war? So here's the skinny on Cinco De Mayo and why this is a holiday worth your attention. While the United States brother- against-brother tensions were building, Mexico was fighting France over unpaid debts. France was not too happy with the leader of Mexico at that time, Benito Juarez, for ignoring these debts SO they decided to launch an attack. Mexico's forces were far outnumbered by France's forces, but in the Battle of Puebla (May 5, 1862) the Mexican forces were victorious over the large French army. So yea they won the battle! Then a year later the French occupied Mexico and in 1864 the French booted Juarez and instilled Emperor Maximilian I (who was of the Hapsburg line- man they just rule everywhere) as ruler. Many other countries weren't too keen on Emperor Maximilian I and refused to recognize his newly acquired power. Following the Civil War, the United States put pressure on the French and they withdrew their forces. Benito Juarez took back his power and Maximilian I was executed.

Historically this battle is very significant, this is the last time that the Americas were invaded by another continent and just like when thirteen baby colonies were able to pull together to hold off the British until they could receive assistance, Mexico did the impossible and defeated the vast French army, who up until that point had not had a military defeat for 50 years! Now that is something to celebrate!

What do I think is the best thing about Cinco De Mayo? It gives people a chance to come together and celebrate the Mexican culture and I think now to truly appreciate the impact that culture has had on the United States. So whether it be food, music, movies, art or dance make today a day of celebration for the underdog and an appreciation for the rich culture of Mexico.