Cinco de Mayo is celebrated to commemorate Mexico's victory over the French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. This battle was a significant morale boost for Mexico during the Second French intervention, where a smaller, less-equipped Mexican army led by General Ignacio Zaragoza defeated a larger and better-armed French force. Although the French eventually occupied Mexico, the victory at Puebla became a symbol of Mexican resistance and national pride
. Cinco de Mayo is often mistaken for Mexican Independence Day, which is actually celebrated on September 16 and marks the start of Mexico's war of independence from Spain in 1810
. In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is primarily observed with military parades, reenactments, and festivals, especially in the city of Puebla where the battle took place. In the United States, it has evolved into a broader celebration of Mexican-American culture, often featuring food, music, and cultural events
. In summary, Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexican resilience and unity symbolized by the unexpected victory at the Battle of Puebla against French imperial forces in 1862.
