What exactly is Cinco de Mayo?

Cinco de Mayo (the fifth of May) commemorates the smaller Mexican army’s victory over Napoleon III’s larger French forces at the Battle of Puebla, which was fought on May 5, 1862.

In the United States, Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of Mexican-American culture.  American Cinco de Mayo celebrations began in California in 1863, on the first anniversary of the victory.  Since then, Cinco de Mayo celebrations have spread to many parts of the United states.  These celebrations often emphasize Mexican cuisine, culture, music and alcohol.  

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