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May 5th - Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is often mistaken as Mexican independence day, but, in fact, the 5th of May commemorates the day that the small Mexican army defeated the large invading French army in 1862. Mexico declared independence from Spain in 1810 (though it took a while for Spain to finally get the hint). In 1862, France, led by Napoleon III and in an attempt to capture land near the United States, decided to invade Mexico and take it for themselves. France hated the United States and was hoping that they could then move on to take U.S. land (which they thought should be pretty easy since America was preoccupied with their own Civil War at the time). The French also thought that they would have no problem invading a small country like Mexico. After defeating Mexico, their plan was to supply aid to the Confederate army and thus help split the United States in two – that way they would have an easier time fighting against an America that was divided against itself.

But the French sure did underestimate the Mexicans! Mexicans, both commoners and soldiers, joined together to protect their homeland, and even though they were outnumbered nearly 2 to 1 (there were about 8,000 invading French troops and only about 4,000 defending Mexicans), they still won an enormous victory! No wonder Mexicans celebrate this amazing day in their history! After the battle was over, the U.S. sent ammunition and American soldiers to help the Mexicans finish the job and expel the French for good. The Union went on to win the Civil War and the United States was able to remain whole. Who knows what would have happened to the United States if the Mexicans hadn’t defeated the French army? This is only one of many examples of how Mexican and American history are intertwined. Decades later, for example, after the bombing of Pear Harbor, thousands of Mexicans joined the U.S. army to help them fight in World War II. Many men said that they were helping to protect the country that had come to their aid back in 1862! Mexicans never forget who their friends are!

Let’s Celebrate Cinco de Mayo!
Today, this holiday is celebrated with food, fun, and festivities! Maybe there will even be a Cinco de Mayo parade in your own home town. You and your family can join in the celebrations – especially now that you know what you’ll be celebrating. Teach your homeschoolers about the rich history behind this holiday, cook up some tasty Mexican foods, or maybe throw a Cinco de Mayo party. Have fun!

Internet Resources

  • Kid’s Domain - Cinco de Mayo coloring pages, Spanish Word Searches, book lists, recipes, and more – this is your best place for Cinco de Mayo curriculum!


  • Kiddy House– More history, lesson plans, coloring pages, and clip art.


  • about.com – Want to throw a Cinco de Mayo party? This site will give you ideas for tasty foods and fun decorations.

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