Cinco De Mayo is a big celebration to celebrate Mexico’s independence frequently celebrated in Mexico. It is celebrated through many gatherings and parades. Many families come together and enjoy time eating food and doing traditional dances along with traditional music. The history comes from certain wars which then led to Mexico’s independence. This celebration differs from Mexico’s independence day, as that is celebrated on September 16. Cinco De Mayo is a special holiday due to its historical background, cultural expressions, and lastly the community and identity.
To start off, Cinco de Mayo has a historical background that shows how important the celebration is. To start off, the Franco – Mexican war, This was caused due to many severe financial debts that Mexico was facing, these debts were owed to European countries including france. This led France to go on a voyage and invade the country and conquer it in 1861. Leading on to that, was the Battle of Puebla, this was a main turning point in war, the victory led to increased resistance against french occupation. This shows how powerful Mexico became as they were fighting against massive forces like the french. In the article. “ When in 1861 Mexico declared a temporary moratorium on the repayment of foreign debts, English, Spanish, and French troops invaded the country” (Britanica). This shows the importance and how all of these major tragic events led to the introduction and celebration of cinco de mayo.
Another key thing celebrated during cinco de mayo is the different types of cultural expressions presented. They have certain music like the Marahci, this is a typical type of music with trumpets, violins and guitars. Another traditional music they listen to is the Banda which is a lot of brass instruments. Along with the music comes a lot of traditional dances like Jarabe Tapatio (Mexican Hat Dance) and folkloric dances showcasing the different cultural heritage of different parts of the country. Some foods and beverages consumed during this festival include, Mole, Tamales, Horchata and many more. In the text, “In Puebla, celebrations start almost one month before, since Mexicans link the anniversary of the founding of Puebla on April 16 with the battle on May 5. Plays, concerts, sport matches, parades” (Urban). This shows the importance people in Mexico hold of this festival and celebration with many traditional things. This also helps to bring a community much closer and create many bonds due to everyone coming out and commemorating the special celebration of independence.
In conclusion, CInco de Mayo is an important celebration celebrating the independence of Mexico. It helps bring families and friends together as well as brightens the mood for everyone with all of the different types of traditional dances and songs. Along with this comes a lot of food and drinks that many people bring to the gatherings. The history of Cinco de Mayo plays an important role showing how strong and powerful Mexico ended up getting after suffering in severe debt. Now it is one of the greatly celebrated holidays in Mexico. Cinco de Mayo holds a very important background, different ways to express culture, and creating stronger relationships and bonds with family and friends.
Works Cited
Britannica. “Mexican-American War.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 28 Nov. 2018, www.britannica.com/event/Mexican-American-War.
“HOW LOCALS REALLY CELEBRATE CINCO de MAYO in MEXICO.” Urban Day Trips, urbandaytrips.com/blog/how-locals-really-celebrate-cinco-de-mayo-in-mexico/.