The 5th of May is not Mexican Independence Day. Mexico declared its independence from mother Spain on midnight, the 15th of September, 1810. And it took 11 years before the first Spanish soldiers were forced to leave Mexico.

So, why celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Because 4,000 Mexican soldiers smashed the French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico, 100 miles east of Mexico City on the morning of May 5, 1862.

As Americans, we should also celebrate this particular holiday because the French may have gained a foothold if the battle of the Mexican army had failed. Remember, at the time, the US was in a state of civil war and not in the best position to defend itself if the French army had turned our direction next.

By the way, if you are planning to go out for a Mexican Food dinner, make reservations ASAP.