Why people celebrate Cinco de Mayo? That’s the most “Americanized” Mexican celebration

In the United States, the 5th of May is celebrated as an expression of pride in Mexican heritage, showcasing the significant presence of the Mexican-American community

The Cinco de Mayo is a date that, although commemorating a historical event that occurred in Mexico, has gained greater significance and popularity in the United States, to the point that many consider it the most American Mexican celebration.

What does May 5 celebrate?

This celebration, which commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French forces in the Battle of Puebla in 1862, has transcended its origins and has become a symbol of pride and resilience for the Mexican-American community.

The Battle of Puebla was a historic milestone in which the Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, faced the French forces, which were considered one of the most powerful in the world at that time. Despite being at a disadvantage in terms of numbers and weaponry, the Mexican army achieved a surprising victory. While this triumph did not guarantee Mexico’s independence, it was a significant event that demonstrated the resilience and fighting spirit of the Mexican people.

In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated with political speeches and reenactments of battles. However, this date is not as popular as other festivities such as Independence Day or Day of the Dead. On the other hand, Cinco de Mayo has been adopted by the Chicano community as one of its most significant celebrations.

It was in the city of Victoria, Texas, the birthplace of General Zaragoza before the territory was annexed to the United States, where the 5th of May was first celebrated just a few years after the victory was achieved.

Cinco de Mayo serves as a symbol of Mexican identity for Chicanos

There are several reasons behind the popularity of Cinco de Mayo in the United States. One of them is the Chicano Movement that took place mainly during the 1960s and 1970s. This day became associated with the movement for the rights of the community in the United States, and this date was used both to commemorate the struggle for their civil rights and to celebrate their Mexican heritage.

Years ago, the American president Franklin Delano Roosevelt implemented the “Good Neighbor Policy” to improve relations between the United States and Latin American nations. That’s when the 5th of May became a date for Americans to connect with Mexican culture.

Some sociology experts also consider the importance of such celebration, as the historical event happened at the same time as the American Civil War. At that time, it was considered that the Mexican intervention possibly helped prevent the French from entering the American territory, which was undergoing a major conflict.

On the other hand, it has been considered that this celebration, like many others such as Valentine’s Day, has been driven more by the private sector, in this case, the beer industry. This is because in the 1980s, companies in the United States began to commercialize the holiday, promoting the consumption of Mexican beers during the celebrations, especially in some regions populated by large Mexican communities such as California and Arizona.

How is Cinco de Mayo celebrated in the United States?

Celebrations in the United States include parades, parties, mariachi music, Mexican regional dances, and traditional foods such as tacos and mole poblano. Some of the most important festivals take place in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston. These celebrations have also spread to other countries with significant Mexican communities, such as Canada, Australia, Great Britain, New Zealand, France, South Africa, Nigeria, and Japan.

The 5th of May has evolved beyond just being a commemoration of the Battle of Puebla and has become a symbol of resistance and the struggle for equal rights for Mexican-Americans. As the Latino population in the United States grows and diversifies, it is likely that the celebration of Cinco de Mayo will continue to be an important event on the cultural calendar.

Furthermore, the Mexican celebration in the United States has achieved significant changes both culturally and economically. In addition to the Super Bowl, the 5th of May is one of the days with the highest avocado consumption, estimated at around 81 million tons.

Would you like to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in the United States?

_{Sources: Milenio, El Financiero, CNN en Español, Hipertextual.}