It’s good to have something to celebrate. And in just a few weeks, there’s going to be a party.
On May 5, Mexicans and Latinos in the Unites States will feast, play music and dance during the annual Cinco de Mayo festivities. The roots of this historic occasion date back to the French occupation of Mexico more than 150 years ago. Then, a French fleet attacked Veracruz causing the government, along with President Juárez to retreat.
After many conflicts, on May 5, 1862, the Mexicans, despite being outnumbered almost two to on, defeated the elite French army near Puebla. While this was not the end, as the French conquered the Mexicans in subsequent battles, it was a significant event that boosted the morale of not just the Mexican army, but of the country. According to Wikipedia, the battle was inspirational. “It provided a stunning revelation to the rest of the world which had largely expected a rapid victory for French arms.”
And so, they celebrate, enjoying the cuisine, the culture and the music of Mexico. To get you in the fiesta mood, here are some fun collections of illustrations:
