In Spanish class, fifth grade students have been learning about Cinco de Mayo. They presented what they learned at All School Meeting this morning, and ended the week with their own celebration.

Cinco de Mayo - Grade 5:

Do you know there is a big misconception in the United States about why Mexican-Americans celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Most people believe that on May 5th Mexicans celebrate their Independence; however, Mexican Independence Day is on September 16th.

On May 5th of 1862, the Mexican army won a battle against the French army in the city of Puebla during the Mexican-French war. They were fighting to protect their land. This was a very significant victory since the Mexican army was mostly farmers that had fewer man and arms than the French army, all odds were against the Mexican army.

In Mexico, this victory is celebrated only in Puebla. It is not a National Holiday. In Puebla the celebrations could last up to a month. They recreate the battle of Puebla, with history, parades and lots of cultural celebrations with food, dances and colorful clothing.

In the United States in the 1960’s a group of Mexican American students were searching to find their new identities as Chicanos. Chicano is the word Mexican Americans chose to called themselves, as representative of their Mexican heritage.

This groups of Chicano students found many connections with this battle. It represented the bravery and pride of the Mexican people led by General Ignacio Zaragoza. Interestingly enough this general, Ignacio Zaragoza, was born in Texas, which at the moment was Mexican territory.

This search for their heritage and their rights as Mexican Americans was also inspired by events that were happening in the United States, like the human rights movement. This group of Chicanos connected to their heritage by honoring the events of May 5th and feeling proud of their Mexican ancestors. 

Later on, certain companies took this date as a way to commercialize their products. It started with beer companies and moved on to anything with a Mexican origin. That’s why nowadays el Cinco de Mayo seems like a great excuse to eat Mexican food, listen to their music and celebrate. We encourage you to ask about Mexican culture, which is such a rich culture, filled with wonderful proud and brave people. More than just great food and colorful sombreros.