pictures of cinco de mayo

found on http://www.hnlnow.com/images/flyers/CincoDeMayoStreetFestival2009-05-05.JPG
http://media.pegasusnews.com/img/events/2008/cincoDeMayo_t520.png
http://media.pegasusnews.com/img/events/2008/cincoDeMayo_t520.png
http://phillyist.com/attachments/philly_jill/cinco%20de%20mayo%202.jpg

the differance between spanish and american celebration

mexico

The holiday of Cinco de Mayo is primarily a regional holiday in Mexico. There is some limited recognition of the holiday in other parts of the country. For the most part the celebrations combine food, music, and dancing.
In Mexico City, like the rest of the Mexican capitals, all the young men who serve the military services pledge allegiance to the Mexican national flag and the institutions that it represents.

america
In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has taken on a significance beyond that in Mexico. The date is perhaps best recognized in the United States as a date to celebrate the culture and experiences of Americans of Mexican ancestry.Cinco de Mayo is observed by many Americans regardless of ethnic origin. Celebrations tend to draw both from traditional Mexican symbols, such as the Virgen de Guadalupe, and from prominent figures of Mexican descent in the United States, including César Chávez. To celebrate, many display Cinco de Mayo banners while school districtshold special events to educate pupils about its historical significance. Special events and celebrations highlight Mexican culture, especially in its music and regional dancing. Commercial interests in the United States have capitalized on the celebration, advertising Mexican products and services, with an emphasis on beverages, foods, and music.



found on en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinco_de_Mayo

history

In 1861, Mexico ceased making interest payments to its main creditors. In response, in late 1861, France (and other European countries) attacked Mexico to try to force payment of this debt. France decided that it would try to take over and occupy Mexico. France was successful at first in its invasion; however, on May 5, 1862, at the city of Puebla , Mexican forces were able to defeat an attack by the larger French army. In this Battle of Puebla, the Mexicans were led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín. Although the Mexican army was victorious over the French at Puebla, the victory only delayed the French invasion on Mexico City; a year later, the French occupied Mexico. The French occupying forces placed Maximilian I, Emperor of Mexico on the throne of Mexico. The French, under U.S. pressure, eventually withdrew in 1866-1867. Maximilian was executed by President Benito Juarez , five years after the Battle.

found on en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinco_de_Mayo

cinco de mayo

Cinco de mayo is not mexico independance day it is when the the battle of puebla (4,000 Mexican soldiers smashed the French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000) , 100 miles east of Mexico City on the morning of May 5, 1862. Cinco de Mayo is significant for at least two reasons. First, while outnumbered almost two-to-one, the Mexicans defeated a much better-equipped French army that had known no defeat for almost 50 year. Second, this battle was important because it would be "the last time that an army from another continent invaded the Americas.


found on about.com