The True History of Cinco de Mayo: Celebrating Mexican Culture and Heritage

There are certain celebrations that are related to a culture, or a country, that have very different origins from what one might think. There are some celebrations that have been brought over from different countries and that over time have become a part of North American pop culture, and there is Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that is widely celebrated across the United States, a day where a lot of elements from Mexican tradition are brought up to the surface, but many people don’t know the true history and significance of the day. A celebration of Mexican identity and Mexican heritage, yet it is not, as many people believe, Mexican Independence Day. Rather, it commemorates the Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862, during the Franco-Mexican War. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the Mexican army was able to defeat the French forces in a surprising victory that boosted the morale of the Mexican people and symbolized their resistance against foreign intervention.

Celebrating Mexican Identity: The Evolution of Cinco de Mayo in the United?States

Over time, Cinco de Mayo has transformed into a holiday that is mostly celebrated by people in the United States, particularly those with Mexican heritage. This can be attributed to several factors, including the rise of Chicano activism in the 1960s, which sought to reclaim and celebrate Mexican culture, as well as the commercialization of the holiday by corporations and advertisers who saw an opportunity to profit from the colorful and cheerful way of being of the Mexican community. What started as a commercial opportunity for those making the decorations and the party favors, became a national celebration of the influence of Mexican culture in the US, which can be seen in many aspects of American life, from the popularity of Mexican food and music to the incorporation of Spanish words and phrases into everyday language. Despite the close cultural ties between the two countries, however, there is still a need to be respectful and mindful of the differences and avoid cultural appropriation and a disrespectful attitude toward the true significance of this day. Cinco de Mayo may have started as a celebration of a military victory, totally unrelated to their independence, but it has since become a symbol of Mexican culture and heritage in the United States, and by understanding the true history of the holiday and being respectful of the culture it represents, we can continue to celebrate and honor the contributions of Mexican Americans to our society.

Cinco de Mayo has been celebrated in the USA since its inception in the year 1863, although it did not start as a celebration of Mexican heritage and culture, but rather as a sort of fundraiser event that had the objective of raising money and recruiting men to aid the ongoing fight against the French and support Juárez, who was still combating with his army.?

In the early days, those celebrations were mostly related to fighting for democracy and freedom against white supremacists and other oppressors in the state of California, where Latinos mostly favored a Union victory over the Confederacy after the civil war and in Mexico. Over time, Cinco de Mayo continued to be celebrated in the United States, mostly thanks to the efforts of those of Mexican descent who were proud of their culture and wanted a way to show their appreciation for their homeland.?

By the 1940s, this day had become a celebration that brought together Mexicans and Mexican Americans around the country, which in turn, created a movement of national and cultural pride that pushed further the activism directed toward the fight for civil rights equality during this time. In fact, this celebration became less and less a remembrance of a battle, and more a day of expression of what being Mexican means in a country that was started to be called home. But, unfortunately, there was a twist for the worse to the story during the late 70s and early 80s, as this celebration started to shift toward a more corporate approach, where brewing companies and restaurants began to use this day as an excuse to push the consumption of Mexican food, beer, and tequila, leaving aside the cultural elements that were the original bonding force behind this day.?

What is going on today with this celebration? Well, that changes a bit from place to place, but in Mexico, this is marked in the state of Puebla (the epicenter of the battle) with historical re-enactments of the Battle of Puebla, mariachi bands playing all over town, colorful parades, and lots of fireworks and costumes, although according to Mexican law, this is not considered to be a national holiday, which means that even though the place lights up with color and music, banks and stores remain open during this day.

Beyond Beer and Tacos: How Communities are Reviving the Culture of Cinco de?Mayo

When it comes to the United States, several communities, especially those with roots in the Puebla region are bringing back the visibility and the culture to larger cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago, with events dedicated to the celebration of dance, literature, and food from Puebla. In the Big Apple, some Mexican folkloric troupes are starting to use this day as a platform to go further into the culture of the region of Puebla, as a direct response to the consumerism surrounding Cinco de Mayo, and the commercialization of the Latino culture within the United States.?

The Latino Culture and Mexican heritage are present in every level of North American society, from street vendors to CEOs and in every industry. The work ethics and personal values of the community are visible and recognizable everywhere, and at Airpals, we are proud to have amongst our members several partners who share the spirit of South America and bring their positivity and energy to our offices. Our work ethic comes from the value we give to every moment of the day. The quality of our performance reflects our positive attitude toward life. We have spice in our blood and fire in our hearts, a smile in our faces, and the rhythm in our feet and in our constant love for music.?

We are Latinos, and we are proud of it. So this year, be sure to boost the volume on that Selena playlist, let your hips feel the music, and celebrate your heritage.

Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in?NYC

The Big Apple knows how to throw a party, and Cinco de Mayo is no exception. Festivities include parades, live music, and, of course, food festivals. Here are a few cool places you’ll want to spend Cinco de Mayo at:

1. Casa Mezcal: Casa Mezcal is a cozy and vibrant restaurant and bar that offers a variety of dishes and cocktails made with mezcal, a traditional distilled spirit from Mexico. You can enjoy tacos, ceviche, quesadillas, enchiladas, and more, all made with fresh ingredients and served with homemade salsa. You can also sip on margaritas, mojitos, sangria, and other drinks infused with mezcal, which has a smoky and complex flavor. Casa Mezcal has a lively atmosphere with live music and DJs, as well as a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy the views of the city. Whether you want to have a casual dinner, a fun night out, or a private event, Casa Mezcal is the perfect place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and experience the culture and flavors of Mexico.

Where: 86 Orchard St, New York, NY, 10002

Opens At: 4 PM

Average prices: $31 — $50

2. Tacombi: If you are looking for another place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a good cause, you should check out Tacombi, an authentic Mexican taqueria with several locations in New York City. Tacombi serves delicious tacos, quesadillas, nachos, and more, made with fresh and simple ingredients free of antibiotics, hormones, genetic modification, or artificial additives & preservatives. You can also enjoy refreshing drinks like margaritas, micheladas, sangrias, and aguas frescas. Tacombi has a colorful and cozy atmosphere that reflects the taco culture of Mexico. This year, Tacombi is holding a fundraiser for Cinco de Mayo to support its Community Kitchen initiative, which prepares and distributes thousands of wholesome Mexican meals every week to people who need them. By dining at Tacombi on Cinco de Mayo, you will have a great time and help fight food insecurity in your community.

Where:?

Upper East Side: 202 East 70th Street, NY, NY 10012

Flatiron: 30 West 24th Street, NY, NY 10011

Forest Hills: 71–22 Austin St, Queens, NY 11375

Nolita: 267 Elizabeth St, NY, NY 10012

Opens At: 11 AM

Average Prices: $15.00 — $30.00

3. Tacuba: Tacuba has a chic and elegant decor that reflects modern Mexican cuisine. You can savor dishes like guacamole, quesadillas, tacos, enchiladas, and more, all made with fresh and quality ingredients. You can also enjoy cocktails like margaritas, mojitos, sangrias, and mezcal, as well as a selection of wine and beer. The restaurant features a sleek and spacious dining room with dark wood tables, leather chairs, and colorful artwork on the walls. The bar area has a cozy and intimate vibe with dim lighting, plush sofas, and a large mural of a woman’s face. The restaurant also has a private dining room that can accommodate up to 40 guests for your special events. The decor of Tacuba creates a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for celebrating Cinco de Mayo or any other occasion.

Where:

802 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10019

35–01 36th Street, Astoria, NY 11106

Opens at: 11:00 AM

Average prices: Under $30.00

Remember, while it’s a day of celebration, it’s also essential to respect and appreciate the culture that has contributed so much to our society. So go ahead, and enjoy the festivities, but don’t forget the true essence of Cinco de Mayo.?