Dismantling the Myth: The Truth about Cinco de Mayo

A very common misconception about Cinco de Mayo is that it celebrates Независимость Мексики из Испании. Но на самом деле это 16 сентября, и для мексиканцев это серьезный бизнес. Не путай эти два праздника!

So what is Cinco de Mayo?

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May 5 celebrates the triumph of Mexico’s army over the French Empire. The classic tale of the underdog winning the race.

Cinco de Mayo History 101

This day honors the Battle of Puebla, the first ever victory of Mexico over better-armed forces in May 5, 1862.

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В Пуэбле - родине этого праздника - празднование этого события носит в основном церемониальный характер, часто представляя собой военные парады и местные фестивали. Однако в остальной Мексике этот день практически не замечают.

Not many people know, but Cinco de Mayo is actually more popular in the US than it is in Mexico. Want to understand why? Here’s a few reasons:

Why the US Celebrates Cinco de Mayo

• The victory of the outnumbered Mexicans against the French boosted the morale of the Hispanic community in the US during the Civil War. This is because the French Empire supported the Confederates, and so the success of Mexico’s troops over France constituted a blow for the Confederacy as well.
• Following the Chicano Civil Rights Movement in the 60s and 70s, the popularity of Cinco de Mayo grew significantly. Since then, big corporations have exploited this festivity to enter the Hispanic market, specifically alcohol companies.
• Not only Mexicans, but the entire Latino community has adopted Cinco de Mayo as a means of celebrating Latin-American pride in a fun setting where many cultures can come together and share.

How to Properly Celebrate

Хотя нет ничего плохого в совместном проведении праздников, важно, чтобы мы знали, почему мы празднуем... и как! Наверное, нет ничего более отвратительного, чем наблюдать, как телеведущие сводят иностранный праздник к очередному предлогу, чтобы устроить хорошую fiesta.

Stay away from maracas, fake mustaches, and sombreros, and instead, maybe support authentic Mexican businesses. We won’t stop you from celebrating Mexican-American heritage on Cinco de Mayo, but make sure you are being respectful of Mexican culture and try to learn a few things from your Spanish-speaking friends while at it!

Researching yummy, authentic Mexican recipes and drinks is also a great idea to spend the day with friends… Food has a history of bringing communities together, after all!