As a proud Latina I credit my parents who instilled pride in me and my Hispanic heritage. Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

If you’re curious about what the big “to-do” is behind the Cinco de Mayo holiday, Google it and you’ll find it is a celebration of Mexico’s triumph over French troops on May 5, 1862.  It was an amazing triumph as the under dog Mexican forces were comprised of poorly equipped mestizo and Zapotec forces under the command of Gen. Ignacio Zaragoza. They went on to defeat the French at the Battle of Puebla, located southeast of Mexico City. This Mexican victory ended French rule.

Often confused

Cinco de Mayo is often confused with another big day of celebration known as Diez y Seis de Septiembre which is Mexico’s Independence Day over Spanish rule. And other people consider it a more newly established commercial holiday to promote sales of what are thought of as beloved Mexican beverages like beer and tequila. Regardless, it goes without saying that people of all nationalities enjoy participating in the Mexican customs and festivities that surround Cinco de Mayo.

My Parents