Jean MartinCinco de Mayo is usually mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day, but it actually commemorates the victory over the French during the War of Puebla in 1862.
The triumph at Puebla symbolized Mexico’s ability to defend its sovereignty against powerful foreign forces, despite being outnumbered.
Cinco de Mayo in the United States:
Mexican-Americans in California first celebrated Cinco de Mayo in the 1860s, finding inspiration from their homeland’s victory during a turbulent period in American history.
Chicano activists revived Cinco de Mayo in the mid-20th century, embracing it as a symbol of ethnic pride and resistance against oppression.
Commercialization and Modern Celebration:
The vogue of Cinco de Mayo in the U.S. soared in the 1970s and 1980s, driven by marketing efforts from beer companies.
Today, it is celebrated nationwide as a vibrant expression of Mexican-American culture, with Los Angeles hosting one of the largest festivities.
