Ah, Cinco de Mayo—a day when many in the U.S. engage in celebrations ostensibly rooted in Mexican food and culture. But there’s more to this day than the colorful social media posts and festive gatherings.

Contrary to common belief, Cinco de Mayo isn’t Mexican Independence Day—that falls on September 16, commemorating Mexico’s independence from Spain in 1810. Instead, Cinco de Mayo marks the surprising victory of the Mexican army over the much stronger French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. This victory, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, was short-lived as the French eventually claimed control for a few years.

So, why does the U.S. celebrate this day more vigorously than Mexico? In Mexico, the celebration is mostly confined to the town of Puebla and a few other cities. However, in the U.S., it has evolved into a significant cultural event, particularly among Mexican-Americans. The holiday began to gain popularity in the 1950s and ‘60s as a means to honor Mexican heritage and foster pride among Mexican-Americans during the civil rights movements.

Over the years, the character of Cinco de Mayo has transformed. By the 1980s, it had become commercialized, shifting from a day of cultural pride to one that’s often centered around partying—a change driven by companies eager to tap into the America’s growing Hispanic demographic.

Today, while Cinco de Mayo is largely associated with festive parties and drink specials, it also remains a day where many celebrate and reflect on Mexican-American culture, heritage, and history through festivals, parades, and educational events. It’s a blend of meaningful cultural appreciation and enjoyable celebration—a mix that keeps the true, resilient spirit of Cinco de Mayo alive.