Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that resonates vibrantly in the United States, often synonymous with lively celebrations, Mexican cuisine, and refreshing margaritas. However, the perception of Cinco de Mayo as a major holiday might be quite different south of the border. While it’s certainly acknowledged in Mexico, the extent and nature of its celebration are often misunderstood, especially when compared to its observance in the U.S.
To truly understand Cinco de Mayo’s place in Mexican culture, it’s essential to delve into its historical roots and contemporary significance. Is Cinco De Mayo Celebrated In Mexico? The answer is nuanced. Let’s explore the facts behind this date and clarify common misconceptions.
Unpacking the History: The Battle of Puebla
Cinco de Mayo, translating to “Fifth of May,” marks the anniversary of a significant, albeit not widely known, military victory for Mexico. On May 5, 1862, the Mexican army triumphed over French forces at the Battle of Puebla.
As explained by Alexander Aviña, associate professor of history at Arizona State University, “It’s the French under Napoleon who sent their troops into Mexico.” This battle occurred during a period when France, under Napoleon III, sought to expand its influence in Mexico.
Despite being outnumbered and less equipped, the Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, successfully defended Puebla against the French. Aviña notes, “So they lost a bunch of battles in those five years but the one battle that they did win occurred on May 5 and that’s why it’s remembered, in Mexico today, but especially remembered in the area of Puebla. That’s where most of the national festivities take place.”
This victory was a remarkable morale booster for the Mexican people. At a time when the French army was considered one of the most powerful globally, the triumph at Puebla, as History.com highlights, was against considerable odds. General Charles de Lorencez led the French troops, who were expected to easily overcome the Mexican resistance.
The Battle of Puebla served a crucial strategic purpose. It effectively slowed down the French advance towards Mexico City, granting the Mexican government precious time to strengthen their defenses and prepare for future confrontations. Furthermore, this victory had international repercussions, subtly influencing the American Civil War by discouraging Napoleon III from offering support to the Confederacy, support that could have potentially altered the war’s outcome.
It’s important to note that the victory at Puebla did not end the French occupation of Mexico. However, its symbolic importance as a moment of Mexican resilience and national pride remains.
Cinco de Mayo vs. Mexican Independence Day
A common misconception, particularly in the United States, is that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day. This is inaccurate. Mexico celebrates its Independence Day on September 16th.
Mexican Independence Day, “Día de la Independencia,” commemorates the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence in 1810. It was on September 16th that Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a priest, issued the “Grito de Dolores,” a call to arms against Spanish colonial rule.
Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla leading the Mexican War of Independence
After over a decade of struggle, Mexico finally achieved independence from Spain on September 27, 1821, with the signing of the Treaty of Córdoba. This day, September 16th, is marked by significant national celebrations throughout Mexico.
How is Cinco de Mayo Celebrated in Mexico?
While Cinco de Mayo is recognized in Mexico, its celebrations are not as widespread or grand as in the United States, except notably in the state of Puebla.
Aviña explains, “I think there’s always some sort of military commemoration in Puebla and there are one or two major fortresses where the Mexican army held their defense against the French as a commemoration of this military victory.” In Puebla, you’ll find military parades, historical reenactments of the Battle of Puebla, and cultural events that commemorate the day.
However, in other parts of Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is a much more subdued affair. It’s often observed more as a regional holiday in Puebla rather than a nationwide festivity. This contrasts sharply with the extensive celebrations seen in the United States.
Why is Cinco de Mayo More Popular in the U.S.?
The widespread celebration of Cinco de Mayo in the United States is a fascinating phenomenon. It’s become a much more significant event north of the border than in most of Mexico.
According to Aviña, “The more interesting question is why, especially in the last 20 to 30 years, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated more in the United States than it is in Mexico, and this confuses a lot of people.”
One key factor is the commercialization of the holiday in the U.S., particularly by the food and beverage industries. Cinco de Mayo has been heavily promoted as an occasion to enjoy Mexican food, drinks, and party-like atmospheres. This commercial aspect has amplified its visibility and popularity across the United States.
However, the roots of Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the U.S. go deeper than just commercial interests. Aviña highlights the historical context: “Historians have shown Mexican communities living in the United States in the 1860s following the news of a French invasion of Mexico with great interest, and after the Mexican military victory on May Fifth, there was a lot of enthusiasm and pride in Mexican communities in the United States.”
Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla leading the Mexican War of Independence
For Mexican communities in the U.S. in the 19th century, the victory at Puebla was a powerful symbol of national pride and resilience. “There were Spanish language newspapers in California, for instance, the way they recorded the victory and the way they recorded the French invasion of Mexico, it generated a lot of Mexican support for their nation. It even led to Mexicans leaving the United States and volunteering and going to Mexico to fight.” This historical connection established Cinco de Mayo as a day for Mexican Americans to celebrate their heritage and express their cultural identity.
Over time, this tradition evolved and expanded, becoming more mainstream in American culture, often incorporating elements of festivity and celebration that resonate broadly, sometimes overshadowing the original historical significance.
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo Respectfully
It is absolutely fine to participate in Cinco de Mayo celebrations. The key is to do so with respect and cultural sensitivity. Avoid stereotypes or cultural appropriation. Instead, seek out opportunities to engage with authentic Mexican culture, such as attending festivals, enjoying traditional performances, and supporting Mexican-owned businesses.
Aviña concludes, “I think, generally, people of Mexican descent in the U.S. celebrate as a way to reaffirm a certain type of national cultural pride… But before that, it was for 100 years a way for Mexicans in the U.S. to proudly assert their Mexican heritage however they saw fit. So in that regard, I don’t see it’s wrong to celebrate, I just have to plead for sort of accuracy and not to build racist caricatures.”
In essence, while Cinco de Mayo is indeed celebrated in Mexico, particularly in Puebla, its scale and meaning differ significantly from its observance in the United States. Understanding its history and cultural context allows for a more informed and respectful appreciation of this holiday.
