Stern lectures for the logically-challenged. Others have opinions, I have convictions.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
A Historic Day
May 5th marks the Mexican army's victory over the French invaders at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. In the United States, the celebration of this battle has come to be known simply as 'Cinco de Mayo.' Along with Mexican Independence Day on Sept. 16, Cinco de Mayo has become a time to celebrate Mexican heritage and culture.
So, defeating the French army is one of the major events in Mexican history? When you think about it, that's kinda lame. I mean, who hasn't defeated the French army?
The battle pitted the Mexican "army" of 4,000 mostly machete-wielding peasants against a professional, well-equipped French army of 8,000. The Mexicans cut them to pieces -- literally. Nope, I don't think that accomplishment was worth a holiday.