Cinco (5) de Mayo is a national holiday in Mexico in honor of a military victory in 1862 over the French forces of Napoleon III. When in 1861 Mexico declared a temporary moratorium on the repayment of foreign debts, English, Spanish, and French troops invaded the country.

By April 1862 the English and Spanish had withdrawn, but the French, with the support of wealthy landowners, The French had landed in Mexico (along with Spanish and English troops) five months earlier on the pretext of collecting Mexican debts from the newly elected government of democratic President Benito Juarez. The English and Spanish quickly made deals and left.

The French have different ideas, and it was when the famous Battle of Puebla started in 1862, were they defeated the French army, thanks to the bravery of the Mexicans. That’s why Cinco de Mayo is such a celebration — A celebration that celebrates freedom and liberty. Ever since the 5th of May, 1862. http://cecomex.com/