It’s Not Mexican Independence Day
Many people tend to confuse Cinco de Mayo with “Día de la Independencia,” or Mexico’s independence day. That holiday, also known as “El Grito de la Independencia,” is actually observed on Sept. 16, when Mexico celebrates its independence from Spain.
Remembering the Battle of Puebla
In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is not a celebration but a day of remembrance, commemorating Mexico’s victory over the French during the 1862 Battle of Puebla. An outnumbered Mexican army led by Ignacio Zaragoza, a 33-year-old Texan from Goliad defeated the invading French forces at the small town of Puebla de Los Angeles during the Franco-Mexico War. The retreat of the French troops represented a great victory for the people of Mexico, symbolizing the country’s ability to defend its sovereignty against a powerful foreign nation.
5 Facts About Cinco de Mayo s History and Meaning nbcmiami.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from nbcmiami.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.