What is Cinco de Mayo?

Photo Credit: Bisayan lady

Today is the Mexican holiday known as Cinco de Mayo (which translated from Spanish to English means "the fifth of May). Although most Americans are likely familiar with this holiday or have at least heard the phrase, few probably are aware of its origins. Here are some tidbits of information on Cinco de Mayo:

* Cinco de Mayo is not an "official" holiday and is mostly recognized in the Mexican state of Puebla.  It is more widely celebrated within the United States than in Mexico.

* It commemorates the Mexican Army's defeat of French military forces in the state of Puebla in 1862.

* It is a Mexican holiday and does not necessarily represent the other Latino cultures represented in the United States (e.g. Puerto Ricans, Cubans, Colombians, etc.). However, those that are not of Mexican heritage may choose to celebrate the holiday much in the same way that others celebrate St. Patrick's Day, Black History Month or the Chinese New Year.

* It is not Mexico's independence day.  That day is September 16th.

* The holiday is typically celebrated with music, food, dancing and other items of Mexican culture.

To learn more about Cinco de Mayo, click here.