AJ’ CORNER
Anthony P. Joseph, Jr.
Why does the United States celebrate Cinco de Mayo? The “holiday”, Cinco de Mayo, which is Spanish for “Fifth of May”, is primarily a regional holiday celebrating the Battle of Puebla, in the Mexican state of Puebla, when Mexican resistance fighters fought and defeated a French army invading Mexico. France was controlled at this time by Napoleon III who, in his own ambitious greed, wanted to create an empire in the Western Hemisphere.
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By the way, this battle does not have anything to do with Mexican independence nor actual outcome of the French invasion; the French would eventually take over Mexico for a couple of years.
So, I ask again why does the United States celebrate a holiday commemorating the Mexican defeat of a French invasion. This Cinco de Mayo is not even widely celebrated in Mexico.
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What could possibly be some answers…
- Placate the Spanish/Hispanic/Latino oriented people in the United States
- To elevate the Spanish/Hispanic/Latino populations in the U.S. to a point of cultural pride
- To harass the French
- All of the above
I always thought the U.S. was fair to all groups, yet other cultures nowadays seem to be slighted.
What about Columbus Day? Oh yes, he destroyed the natives and their culture. Can’t have a Columbus Day celebration or parade; maybe a brave area will celebrate. What about a Christmas Day, anything? No, can’t have that. Political correctness states you must say happy holiday. A St. Patrick Day’s Parade is permitted, maybe; why a St. Patrick’s Day?
Before long, you will not be able to celebrate the 4th of July??? But keep in mind; this is an “American” holiday; ALL AMERICANS WANT THIS.
Yet, a FOREIGN HOLIDAY is celebrated in the United States; schools, local drinking establishments, and in other venues.
Why?
