Celebrating the victory at Veracruz, end of colonial rule
By Luis Rubèn Farìas Serrano
Contrary to what some people may think, Cinco de Mayo is not
Mexican Independence Day. However, both events were extremely
important in having shaped the history and hence, in shaping the
future of the Mexican Republic.
Mexican Independence Day is celebrated on Sept. 16; Cinco de
Mayo is celebrated on May 5. The significance of Mexican
Independence Day is that it celebrates the declaration of freedom
made against Spain on Sept. 16, 1810, by a Mexican Catholic priest,
Miguel Hidalgo, who is known as the father of Mexican independence.
His declaration eventually rendered Mexico a sovereign state in
1821.
Cinco de Mayo, on the other hand, celebrates a battle that took
place against the French in Veracruz on May 5, 1862. Even though
the Mexicans were severely outnumbered and in possession of
inferior weaponry, they defeated the French army. Thereafter, they
deposed and executed emperor Maximilian I of Austria, who had been
sent by Napoleon III to rule Mexico. Both events were successful
efforts to rid the Mexicans of colonialism.
In order to honor those who died at the hand of the wars against
Spain and France, Mexicans celebrate with enthusiastic dances,
elaborate plays, gatherings and, of course, pride. With that in
mind, let me wish you a feliz Cinco de Mayo.
Serrano is a political science student with an emphasis in
international relations.