So, what is Cinco de Mayo? For many years in the United States, Cinco de Mayo Day has been synonymous with going out for drinks and enjoying the day. Sure it’s fun to go out on this May holiday but not many people know what it’s about and why it’s celebrated. Cinco de Mayo is tied to a battle fought in Mexico 161 years ago. Since then, it has evolved to celebrate Mexican heritage and culture. It dates back to a mid-19th-century battle that had become an unexpected victory for the Mexican army over the French forces. It’s now celebrated on May 5, each year. Cinco de Mayo is also known as the anniversary of the “Battle of Puebla: and “the Battle of Puebla Day.” Mexico was attacked by foreign troops because the president defaulted on his payments to the European nations after the war had reduced the country’s ability to pay. Cinco de Mayo became the rallying fight against the French occupation and the day they finally won their independence. Meanwhile, in the U.S., Cinco de Mayo has become an annual celebration of Mexican American culture.m The holiday gained notoriety in the U.S. in the 1960s largely thanks to the efforts of Chicano activists because many identified with the victory of indigenous Mexicans over European invaders during the Battle of Puebla. A lot of people think it’s their independence day so that’s why Americans celebrate it. Americans usually celebrate it by going to bars and restaurants to gear up every year for Cinco de Mayo, offering special deals on Mexican foods and alcoholic drinks. Lots of Americans think it’s a celebration, however, Cinco De Mayo is just an excuse for Americans to throw back margaritas and tequila that most people in Mexico are unfamiliar with.
