I love celebrating holidays in Mexico and often wonder about Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day. Both are big cultural celebrations that highlight the rich Mexican history. But, they mark different historical events.
Cinco de Mayo is on May 5th and honors the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The Mexican army won against the French. This holiday is more celebrated in the U.S. than in Mexico.
Mexican Independence Day is on September 16th. It remembers the start of Mexico’s fight for freedom from Spain in 1810. This is known as the “Grito de Dolores” or the Cry of Dolores.
Both holidays remind us of Mexico’s strength, pride, and culture. Let’s look into their origins and today’s celebrations. We’ll see how they help us appreciate Mexican culture.
The Battle of Puebla in 1862
On May 5, 1862, the Battle of Puebla was a key moment in Mexico’s history. General Ignacio Zaragoza led 2,000 Mexican soldiers against 6,000 French troops. Despite being outnumbered, the Mexican army won, hurting the French badly. President Benito Juárez made Cinco de Mayo a national holiday. It united Mexicans, boosting their pride.
“It was a David and Goliath type of battle, wherein the smaller Mexican army was able to defeat a larger occupying force.” – Katherine Brophy, Lecturer in Global Studies, Babson College
Even though the French took over Mexico, the Battle of Puebla was a symbol of Mexican bravery. Cinco de Mayo was celebrated in Mexico until the early 1900s. It reminds us of Mexico’s strong spirit against challenges.
Mexican Independence Day: A Distinct Holiday
Cinco de Mayo is about a big battle, but Mexican Independence Day is more than that. It’s celebrated on September 16. This day marks the start of Mexico’s fight for freedom from Spain in 1810.
The Cry of Dolores in 1810
On September 16, 1810, a priest named Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave a powerful speech. It was called the “Grito de Dolores” in Dolores, Guanajuato. His words sparked the Mexican War of Independence, calling for people to fight against Spanish rule.
“¡Viva México! ¡Viva la independencia!”
These words mean “Long live Mexico! Long live independence!” They symbolize Mexican pride. Every year, people repeat these words during Independence Day.
Cultural and Historical Importance of Both Holidays
Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day are very important to the Mexican people. They remind us of Mexico’s rich traditions and customs. These holidays also bring out a strong sense of national pride.
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day Authentically
I think it’s key to understand the real meaning of Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day. With nearly 60 percent of Hispanic people in the U.S. being of Mexican descent, these holidays mean a lot. To truly honor them, we should dive into traditional Mexican customs and activities.
Visiting cities with big Mexican American populations, like Los Angeles or Chicago, is a great idea. These places host festivals for Cinco de Mayo. You can enjoy real Mexican food, music, and dance. Or, traveling to Mexico, especially Puebla or Mexico City, gives a deeper look at how these days are celebrated.
By celebrating authentically, embracing Mexican traditions, and sharing knowledge, we grow our appreciation for Mexican culture and history. Whether it’s going to a festival, cooking traditional dishes, or learning more, it makes our cultural experiences richer. It also strengthens our bond with the vibrant Mexican American community in the U.S.
