MAY 5, 2008-Contrary to popular belief, Cinco De Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day; It’s not even a national holiday.
It’s the anniversary of a battle Mexico won against the French army in 1862.
Yet, the “holiday” is overblown here in the United States, with Cinco De Mayo. specials in many stores as well as an annual boxing match featuring Oscar De La Hoya.
And let’s not forget the binge drinking.
With so many furniture specials offered on this day each year, the current way we celebrate might lead some to believe that the machete-swinging Mexican Army was pondering a new four-poster bed frame when they were fighting the French.
Celebrations originally designed to honor the blood, sweat and tears of other ethnicities are doomed to be Americanized, obliterating the significance of the part of Mexican history the day recognizes.
The real story doesn’t have anything to do with sales, funny hats or beer bongs.
In 1862, the French made their way from the shore city of Veracruz to Puebla, determined to reach the capital, Mexico City. But the French Army didn’t know that Mexican President Benito Juarez, with 4,000 troops, was prepared to stand up against the 8,000 French soldiers.
France had not lost a war in more than 50 years and with modern equipment, the idea of being defeated by an army half their size with a couple of machetes was incomprehensible. Yet Mexico prevailed against these seemingly insurmountable odds.
This remarkable battle still brings pride and joy to many Mexicans, especially people from Puebla.
Even though this historical event has been reduced to a yearly excuse to get belligerently drunk, the history of Cinco De Mayo is an important part of Mexican culture.
So, today, when you’re slamming cervezas and tequila shots with your friends, tell them the real story behind this date.
By the way, Mexico’s actual Independence Day is Sept. 16.