Cinqo de Mayo

On May 5, 1862, 6000 French soldiers waged battle against 2000 Mexican fighters in two forts. Though one fort was destroyed, 2000 French perished -- and the Mexicans won the Battle of Puebla. Not exactly Mexican Independence Day, this was a significant victory -- one where heart and valor bested numbers and theoretical military superiority.

As an opportunity to celebrate one's heritage and take pride in their quest for autonomy, Cinqo de Mayo is a milestone that speaks to the heroism of a humble, but hard-working people. As a reason to be festive and come together, it merges struggle with euphoria: never a bad balance to strike.

Thanks to Holly Gleason for the history lesson.