Cinco de Mayo is Spanish for the 5th of May. On that day, people in the United States and parts of Mexico celebrate Mexican culture.
Why is the celebration on May 5th and not on September 16th, which is Mexican Independence Day?
On May 5th, 1862, more than 6,000 French soldiers tried to capture the small village of Puebla. The Mexican army was small - only 3,000 men. Many did not have weapons. Surprisingly, the Mexicans drove back the French and showed the world that they would fight to keep their country and their freedom.
The Americans, especially in Southern California, supported the Mexicans in their battle against French rule. After the Civil War, President Lincoln sent troops to join with the Mexicans.
Cinco de Mayo is a celebration not only of the Mexican culture, but also a celebration of the Mexican American relationship.
Source: worksheetsplus.com/cincoDeMayo/cdmWhatIs.html What is Cinco de Mayo?
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