Spanning back to the 19th century, Cinco De Mayo, or the fifth of May, signifies a crucial event in Mexican history when the country stood up against foreign invasion. The day commends the surprising victory of the Mexican army over the French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Amidst financial instability, Mexico had stopped paying back its foreign debts, instigating several countries, including France, to demand repayment. The French, under Napoleon III, opted for invasion as a means of establishing control. However, against all odds, around 2,000 Mexican troops, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, were triumphant over the well-equipped and much larger French battalion. Cinco De Mayo is not to be confused with Mexico’s Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16th. The former has evolved over the years to become a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage particularly in regions with substantial Mexican populations, including several areas in the United States. Thus, its roots provide an intriguing pattern of resilience and national pride, embodied in the annals of Mexican history.
#1. What event is celebrated during Cinco De Mayo?
B is the answer. Cinco De Mayo, or the fifth of May, signifies the day of the Mexican army’s surprising victory over the French forces at the Battle of Puebla.
#2. On what date is Cinco De Mayo celebrated?
C is the answer. Cinco De Mayo, which literally translates to the fifth of May, is celebrated on May 5th.
#3. Why did several countries, including France, demand repayment from Mexico in the 19th century?
C is the answer. Amidst financial instability, Mexico stopped paying back its foreign debts, which triggered several countries, including France, to demand repayment.
#4. Who led the Mexican troops in the battle against the French forces?
B is the answer. Around 2,000 Mexican troops were led by General Ignacio Zaragoza to a victory against the French forces.
#5. What is the difference between Cinco De Mayo and Mexico's Independence Day?
A is the answer. Cinco De Mayo is not to be confused with Mexico’s Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16th.
#6. Nowadays, how is Cinco De Mayo chiefly recognized, particularly in regions with significant Mexican populations?
C is the answer. Cinco De Mayo has evolved over the years to be become a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, especially in areas with large Mexican populations, including several places within the United States.