Many of us recently celebrated Cinco de Mayo, the fifth of May. As a Spanish speaker, I was constantly asked, “What exactly is Cinco de Mayo?” to which I could only respond, “I’m not quite sure.” Because I am one who likes to be in possession of the facts, I was compelled to do some research.

According to “Cinco de Mayo – The Basics”, Cinco de Mayo is actually the celebration of “Mexico’s unlikely victory over French forces in the Battle of Puebla,” which took place during the American Civil War. Americans and Mexican Americans alike celebrate the holiday more heavily in the U.S than in Mexico. It is a day to give thanks to the Mexican forces and all of their sacrifices during the Civil War, as well.

Check out the article below to learn more about the importance of Cinco de Mayo, as well as how and where it is celebrated.

Read this great article on Cinco de Mayo.