The Battle of Puebla and Making Sense of America’s Love for Cinco de Mayo

Q: Why Do Americans Celebrate Cinco de Mayo?

There are many reasons that Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in the United States, despite being a celebration of a battle we had no part in. One reason is the Chicano Movement in the 1960s and 1970s helped popularize the holiday as a way to celebrate Mexican-American culture. Connected to this is the fact that many families living in the U.S. also have ties to Puebla and Mexico as a whole. In Mexico, the celebrations continue as a reminder of the resistance and sacrifices needed to maintain their freedom. A familiar sentiment to Americans who celebrate the 4th of July for the same reasons. The Battle of Puebla didn’t happen on U.S. soil but responsible, and respectful celebrations continue to take place. They are a way to come together and show love to our Latino neighbors. Suggested reads: VA COMPACT Act – Free Emergency Suicide Care for Vets Real Life Star Wars? US Military Laser Weapons Continue to Improve The Truth About Transitioning Out of the Military & Tips for Vets

By Buddy Blouin

Published: May 3, 2024 at 5:40 PM EDT

Updated: October 1, 2025 at 6:05 PM EDT

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The Battle of Puebla and Making Sense of America’s Love for Cinco de Mayo

Every May 5th, millions of Americans enjoy margaritas and at least some form of Mexican-related food. Thanks to the Battle of Puebla and a civil rights movement, a military holiday was born that is beloved throughout the United States, even if we had nothing to do with it. So, before you responsibly lick the salt, take your shot, and squeeze a lime, discover the true meaning behind Cinco de Mayo. Learn why so many people north of the Rio Grande celebrate it every year.

When Was the Battle of Puebla?

The Battle of Puebla took place on May 5, 1862. It is now famously the holiday of Cinco de Mayo. This was a conflict that took place at the beginning of the Second French Intervention in Mexico or the Second Franco-Mexican War, lasting from December 8, 1861, until June 21, 1867. The war was just over five and a half years over a disagreement between an indebted Mexico faced with a nation that was eager to expand its empire and influence throughout the Americas. France sent troops to Mexico City but was first confronted with Mexican defenses in Puebla ready to repel their advances. Thus, the Battle of Puebla took place once the French advanced under the orders of General Charles Latrille Laurencez.

Who Fought in the Battle of Puebla?

On one side, you have President Benito Juárez’s General Ignacio Zaragoza leading the Mexican army, and on the other, the invading French fighting under the leadership of Gen. Laurencez. Brigadier General Porfirio Díaz also played a major role in the 1862 Battle of Puebla for the Mexicans. Under his leadership, the French were successfully flanked. Although many other nations were involved in the Second Franco-Mexican War as a whole, the main belligerents during the Battle of Puebla in 1862 were France and Mexico.

Does Mexico Celebrate Cinco de Mayo?

Battle of Puebla Day, aka Cinco de Mayo, is a celebration in Mexico. However, it’s important to understand the context, as it’s a bit different than the celebrations seen stateside. There are parades, celebrations, battle reenactments, and more throughout Puebla. However, you won’t find as many in other parts of Mexico. Of course, some other cities and regions are exceptions. There are even locations that cater to American audiences, but it’s not the same as it is in the United States. For Mexicans in Puebla, it makes a lot of sense to celebrate the battle. It was a strong Mexican victory that helped send a message to the European forces invading their land. The Mexican Republic suffered many casualties. However, France was experiencing many more due to the defensive measures in place by Mexico. This includes a brick wall, a fortified ditch, and the strategy of flanking their enemies. France retreated to the coast losing nearly 1,000 troops along with the Battle of Puebla as Mexico enjoyed success. That is until the French returned tens of thousands of troops in March. They took over the town of Puebla forcing a surrender, with many Mexicans going to prison in France. Years later, Brig. Gen. Diaz would recapture Puebla and Mexico ultimately won the war.