Podcast: Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo, or the Fifth of May, is a holiday that commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. This battle was a significant, though symbolic, win for Mexico during the Franco-Mexican War, as the Mexican forces were outnumbered and poorly equipped compared to the French. Led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, their triumph became a symbol of resistance and resilience. Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day—that event is celebrated on September 16. In fact, Cinco de Mayo is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, primarily observed in the state of Puebla with military parades and reenactments of the battle.