Cinco de Mayo, which means "Fifth of May" in Spanish, is an annual celebration held on May 5th to commemorate Mexico's victory over the French forces of Napoleon III at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. On that day, a smaller and less equipped Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, defeated a much larger and better-armed French army, providing a significant morale boost during a difficult period for Mexico

. This battle was important because it delayed French plans to establish control over Mexico, although the French eventually occupied Mexico City later. The victory at Puebla became a symbol of Mexican resistance and pride. Cinco de Mayo is primarily celebrated in the Mexican state of Puebla with military parades, reenactments, and festivals. In Mexico overall, the day is more ceremonial and localized

. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has become a widely popular celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, often marked by parades, music, food, and parties. However, it is sometimes mistakenly thought to be Mexico's Independence Day, which is actually celebrated on September 16 and commemorates the start of Mexico's war for independence from Spain in 1810

. In summary, Cinco de Mayo honors a specific military victory in 1862 that symbolizes Mexican resilience and unity against foreign invasion, rather than Mexican independence itself. It has grown into a cultural celebration especially embraced by Mexican-American communities in the U.S.