 Describe important celebrations/holidays that occur in the United States. When do these occur? What are the festivities like? Be detailed!

 Cinco de Mayo is Spanish for “fifth of May”  The date commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla (Batalla de Puebla) on May 5, 1862  May 5 th is observed in the United States as a celebration of Mexican pride and heritage  Cinco de Mayo is NOT Mexico’s Independence Day (September 19)

Mexicans defeated a stronger army – France was the strongest force during this time – Mexico was outnumbered 2:1 during the battle – The Battle of Puebla was the first time the French army had been defeated in nearly 50 years

 Date largely recognized in the United States  U.S. celebrates the culture and experiences of Americans of Mexican ancestry – similar to St. Patrick’s Day, Oktoberfest, Chinese New Year, etc.  June 7, 2005: Congress issued a Concurrent Resolution that led to a proclamation from President George W. Bush for the U.S. to observe Cinco de Mayo

Parades and fiestas are the main celebratory activity for Cinco de Mayo. The holiday is primarily celebrated in:  Mexico  United States  Canada  Cayman Islands  Malta

Food is one of the main traditions of Cinco de Mayo. Popular foods include:  Menudo Soup  Plantain Chips  Mole Poblano  Tacos al Pastor

Dancing is very popular at Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Traditional dances include:  The Mexican Hat Dance  Jarabe Tapatio  La Zapatiya

Everyone dresses festively for Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Traditional attire includes:  Hues of red, green, and white (Mexican flag)  Bright, pretty colors  Sombreros, twirly skirts, cowboy boots, or huaraches  Dressing up like one of Mexico's favorite historical figures

French fleet stormed Veracruz in late 1861 – President Juarez and his government retreat French forces move from Veracruz towards Mexico City 4,000 Mexico Soldiers attacked the French Army of 8,000 on May 5, 1862 – This would later be called la Battle de Puebla – The Mexican army managed to defeat the French Army

Mexican victory was short-lived – The French Army moved forward and captured Mexico City a year later – French Emperor Maximillian became ruler of Mexico French Victory was also short-lived – France only controlled Mexico for three years ( ) – Following the U.S. Civil War, the United States provided assistance to Mexico to expel the French from control

 Now that you have learned some historical information about Cinco de Mayo, you and your group members will spend time creating an artifact to commemorate the holiday!  This can be one of the following: a picture book telling the story of the battle or a brochure for an event happening on Cinco de Mayo