🇲🇽 Until a few years ago I had never heard of CINCO de MAYO. I decided it was time I learned more about it and why is it marked as a holiday on my calendar. This is what I found on this subject.     Cinco de Mayo, which means the fifth of May in Spanish, is a holiday that celebrates the Mexican army’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War on May 5, 1862. It’s a relatively minor holiday in Mexico but has evolved into a significant commemoration of Mexican culture and heritage in the United States.     Cinco de Mayo originated in the aftermath of the aforementioned battle. The Mexicans were greatly outnumbered and ill-equipped against one of the world’s most powerful armies, yet they managed to triumph. This unexpected victory against overwhelming odds became a source of pride for Mexico and symbolized resistance against foreign domination. The first Cinco de Mayo was celebrated soon after the battle itself, so its first official date would be May 5, 1862. If we calculate from then to 2024, it will mark the 162nd anniversary of Cinco de Mayo. The holiday was started by Mexicans who wanted to celebrate their country’s unexpected victory over France at Puebla. Over time, Mexican immigrants to the United States began celebrating it as well, especially in areas with large Mexican-American populations like California and Texas.     Cinco de Mayo celebrations typically involve parades, music, folkloric dancing, and traditional foods like tacos and mole poblano. In many U.S. cities — notably including Los Angeles; Chicago; and Houston — massive festivities are organized every year featuring live music, parades and various events celebrating Mexican culture. However, it is important to note that Cinco de Mayo is often mistakenly thought of as Mexico’s Independence Day by people unfamiliar with its history — that is actually celebrated on September 16. It is also not widely observed across all regions of Mexico but rather primarily recognized in Puebla where the original victory occurred. After learning all this I just had to find out what mole poblano, (doesn’t sound appetizing: come on now MOLES the little creature that burrows underground). From what I can find out “MOLE”, covers many different kind of sauces. Poblano is a thick and savory chile and chocolate sauce from the state of Pueblo. May be delicious, but I don’t think I would try it chile and chocolate just don’t go together in my mind. Happy “Cinco de Mayo’ 🇲🇽 Artie Fischal Post Views: 87
