Happy Cinco de Mayo! On May 5, 1862, the Mexican army defeated the French Army at the Battle of Puebla. This single military battle signified defeat of a European colonial power, and a victory for the Mexican people. This single battle was the roots of Cinco de Mayo. Mexican Independence day is celebrated on Sept. 16.
What Cinco de Mayo has come to be, is much more than one battle in the colonial history of Mexico. Rather, it has come to signify Hispanic and Mexican pride and a time to celebrate the rich culture.
Today, Mexicans and especially the Hispanic/Latino community in the United States celebrate this holiday. It is a time of song, dance, partying and, in general, a time to be proud to be of Hispanic/Latino culture. And we of all races and cultures are invited to join in the celebration. Be it nachos and beer or salsa, chips and margaritas, or a full-blown seven course dinner with singing, mariachi bands and dancing until dawn, it is a day of celebration. We all get to join in.