What is Cinco de Mayo?

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Where did Cinco de Mayo come from? Photo: Metro Services/Metro Creative Services

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) – Contrary to one popular misconception, Cinco de Mayo is not a celebration of Mexican independence. Mexico’s Día de la Independencia is actually celebrated on Sep. 16. So what does Cinco de Mayo commemorate?

Cinco de Mayo, meaning “Fifth of May” in Spanish, commemorates a highly improbable Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. While Cinco de Mayo is now celebrated across the United States, it remains a minor holiday in Mexico that is primarily observed in the state of Puebla. Contrary to popular American opinion, Cinco de Mayo is not a general celebration of Mexican culture.

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