Cinco De Mayo

Today at work, there seemed to be a general buzz - and when i asked about it, i was told that it was Cinco de Mayo - literally translated as the 5th of May. Further questionining and i was surprised to find that this wasn't actually one of the many US holidays that seem to crop up throughout the year but actually is to commemorate the victory of the Mexican militia over the French army at The Battle Of Puebla in 1862. Although it is primarily a regional holiday celebrated in the Mexican state capital city of Puebla and throughout the state of Puebla, there is some recognition in other parts of the Mexico, and also especially in those U.S. cities with a significant Mexican population. However, contrary to popular belief, it does not represent Mexico's Independence Day - and the actual date for this is September 16.

The battle at Puebla happened in 1862 at a violent and chaotic time in Mexico's history. Having finally gained independence from Spain in 1821 after a difficult and bloody struggle, a number of internal political takeovers and wars (such as the Mexican Civil War of 1858) had ruined the national economy. Because of this, the country had accumulated large debts to England, Spain and France - and the latter decided to use this issue as a reason for empire expansion. Invading the coast, the French army marched towards Mexico City - but encountered strong resistance and ultimately defeat by a smaller and less well-equipped army - the victory celebrated here. Whilst this was short lived, the French ultimately managed to install a ruler of Mexico, this was also relatively brief as the US (after their civil war) provided more support and the French, ultimately, were expelled. Of course, for American citizens to celebrate this, is something akin to Englishmen celebrating St. Patricks Day - but, i guess, any excuse for a party!