DECK: The fifth of May is considered one of the fastest-growing holidays in the United States
Often confused with Mexican Independence Day on Sept. 16, Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexico’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 during the Franco-Mexican War.
Mexico defaulted on its debt in 1861 to several European governments. France, Britain and Spain invaded the country seeking repayment. While Britain and Spain reached an agreement with Mexico and retreated, France invoked their political power in an effort to claim land there.
The Mexican army were outnumbered two-to-one against the French opposition in a certain David-vs.-Goliath situation. The French believed a victory was