Viva! El Cinco De Mayo!! Few know the history, but even fewer manage to pass by this festive occasion without some sort of recognition of this historic day. As far as the historical part of this goes, I’m going to let the folks at The Lake Channel do the talking…
This traditional Mexican celebration is held to commemorate La Batalla de Puebla (The Battle of Puebla), which was fought in 1862. During the battle, 4,000 Mexican soldiers defeated the combined French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico, 100 miles east of Mexico City on the morning of May 5, 1862. The Cinco de Mayo celebration is primarily a tribute to the outnumbered, but brave, Mexicans who faced an army twice as large and won.
And how did we Americans get involved in this fray? The article goes on: After the Civil War ended, Union forces sped to the aid of the brave Mexicans, expelling the French once and for all. Mexicans never forget who their friends are! In gratitude for past aid, thousands of Mexicans crossed the border after Pearl Harbor to join the U.S. Armed Forces. During the Persian Gulf War, Mexicans by the hundreds called American consulates, trying to join up and help America fight another war.
So, now that we have the history of Cinco De Mayo (like we really need a reason) let’s get our friends together at the lake house or on the lake for a boat party and have a great (and safe) time!
