Cinco de Mayo Explained

It seems like each year we hear more and more about America’s Cinco de Mayo celebrations – especially with the increased commercialization of Mexican food, beer, culture, etc.  But what is Cinco de Mayo exactly?  Well, for starters, it is not Mexican Independence Day (that’s 9/16), but rather a celebration of Mexico’s underdog victory over the French outside of Mexico City on May 5, 1862.  And, it’s not really celebrated in Mexico.  However, the holiday has been “Americanized” to celebrate Mexican-American heritage and culture….which is part of the unique & rich cultural fabric of America that truly makes “e pluribus unum” ring true!  Happy Cinco de Mayo (on May 5th) and of course, Happy Friday!!!

Hat tip to teachersdiscover.com.