Happy Cinco de Mayo! Today, Mexicans and Mexican-Americans commemorate the triumphant Battle of Puebla with food, festivals, parades and more. Before we share how you can celebrate Cinco de Mayo with special Delysia treats, let’s revisit the history of this boisterous celebration (hint: it actually doesn’t have anything to do with Mexican Independence Day).
Clash with the French
Many folks think Cinco de Mayo commemorates the battle for Mexican independence—but that’s actually not the case. Cinco de Mayo in fact celebrates the Mexican’s defeat over the invading French in the 1862 battle of Puebla. When France, Britain, and Spain sailed to Mexico to confront Mexican President Benito Juarez over some unpaid debts, Britain and Spain managed to negotiate with Juarez and sailed away. France, though, had a different idea—French ruler Napoleon III seized the debt controversy as an opportunity to invade Mexican territory. Later in 1861, the French emperor sent 6,000 troops over to carve out a piece of Mexico for themselves.
With the French forces intent on attacking the east-central Mexican town of Puebla de Los Angeles, things weren’t looking too good for Mexico. President Juarez managed to gather together a team of 2,000 loyal Mexican compatriots to protect the town—but they were still outnumbered 3 to 1. Led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, the Mexican forces clashed with the French on May 5th, 1862. By the end of the day, a defeated and depleted French army retreated; against all odds, Zaragosta and his Mexican troops claimed victory.
Food, Dancing, Music, and More!
Surprisingly, Cinco de Mayo isn’t considered a major holiday in Mexico, although it is celebrated by many in the state of Puebla were the battle took place many years ago. Mainly, though, the date is celebrated in the United States, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American populations like Los Angeles, Chicago, and many parts of Texas. At lively parades and parties highlighting Mexican heritage you can find traditional Mexican mariachi music, folk dancing, and scrumptious Mexican classics like tacos and mole poblano. In Austin and want to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with your fellow Austinites? Head to downtown Austin tonight for the La Condesa Cinco de Mayo Block Party!
Inspired by Mexican Flavors
You can celebrate at home, too, by indulging in some distinctly Mexican treats from Delysia. Try our Latin Truffle Collection, which features the spicy flavors of jalapeno, cayenne and habernero peppers tempered by smooth Delysia chocolate. Or try our Cayenne Hot Chocolate Mix, which was inspired by an ancient Mayan healing recipe. However you decide to celebrate, we wish you a happy Cinco de Mayo!
Source: History.com