What is Cinco de Mayo REALLY about?
In celebration of Cinco de Mayo, we want to share the history behind the holiday and also debunk a few myths. Read more about the lessons we can learn from the Battle of Puebla and how to celebrate Cinco de Mayo authentically.
Cinco de Mayo is celebrated as the anniversary of the Battle of Puebla, the May 5, 1862, military victory over French forces under Napoleon III.
In 1861, an indebted Mexico announced a moratorium on the repaying of foreign debts. In response, France, Britain and Spain sent naval forces demanding repayment. Britain and Spain negotiated and withdrew their militaries, while Napoleon III viewed this as an opportunity to carve out a French empire in Mexico.
On May 5, 1862, as French forces totaling 6,000 attempted to advance on the capital of Mexico City, the fortified city of Puebla blocked their route. An undermanned and ill-equipped Mexican army composed of 2,000 mestizo and Zapatec soldiers defeated the French troops. This was a great symbolic victory for Mexico in their ongoing war with France.
Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images
Myths About Cinco de Mayo
That it’s Mexican Independence Day. Mexico declared its independence from Spain on September 16, 1810, and celebrates this date as its independence day.
That it is not celebrated in Mexico. While Cinco de Mayo is not a federal holiday in Mexico, celebrations take place in the state of Puebla with military parades, reenactments of the battle and other festivities.
If Cinco de Mayo is not really celebrated in Mexico en masse, how did it come to be celebrated in the United States?
As the French invaded Mexico, across the border, the Civil War raged on in the United States and France backed the Confederate army as they advanced on California. Mexicans in California were hopeful, hearing of the Mexican defeat against the French in Puebla.
In the 1960s, Chicano civil-rights activists on college campuses raised awareness to Cinco de Mayo, identifying with the victory of Indigenous Mexicans against their French adversaries.
Like so many cultural holidays and observances Cinco de Mayo has become commercialized and appropriated, distilling rich historic and cultural traditions into a boozy fiesta. This commercialization began via targeted marketing of Mexican Americans by beer companies in the 1970s. Cinco de Mayo is about much more than tacos & margaritas.
How can you celebrate Cinco de Mayo?
Educate yourself
Read Mexican/Mexican American authors to organically immerse yourself in their culture and experiences. (Sandra Cisneros or others from this list)
Don’t overgeneralize
Most of Mexico and many Mexican Americans do not celebrate Cinco de Mayo as there is no one archetype of who is Mexican. It is a vast country with a diversity of people and regions each with their own cultures and traditions.
A Word on Cultural Appropriation vs. Appreciation
Partaking in a cultural celebration does not require you to wear a costume or dress up as a culture. If you have a true interest in Mexican fashion or decor look into buying a huipil to wear or adorning your home in otomi textiles.
Celebrate authentically
Enjoy your tacos, but instead of making a huge order from the Tex-Mex chain restaurant - seek out your neighborhood taqueria, take a minute to learn about the family who runs the place and support your small local businesses.
The celebratory dish for Cinco de Mayo celebrations in Puebla is Mole Poblano. Dating back to the 17th century, mole is a thick, rich sauce composed of chocolate, nuts, chiles and spices frequently eaten over chicken.
Remember the Lesson
The underdog can be victorious! Regardless of your background, we can all appreciate the idea that with concerted efforts small groups can have big wins.
Written by Lisa Alvarado