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In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is called 'El Día de la Batalla de Puebla', which means The Day of the Battle of Puebla.
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When the Mexican's beat the French in the Battle at Pueblo, it was unexpected. It was thought the French would win, who were there to collect on war debts.
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Spain and England also sent forces to collect debts but retreated after making an agreement with Mexico.
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The French army was better equipped, better trained and was much larger. Mexico only had approximately 4,000 poorly-armed soldiers and France had between 6,500 and 8000 well-equipped soldiers. France hadn't been beaten in 50 years.
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Cinco de Mayo is often confused as being Mexico's Independence Day. Mexico's Independence Day is September 16th and is considered to be Mexico's most important patriotic holiday.
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In 2005, the U.S. Congress passed a resolution to recognize the 'historical significance' of Cinco de Mayo.
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The world's largest Cinco de Mayo celebration is held in Los Angeles, California. It's called 'Fiesta Broadway', and began in 1990. Approximately 600,000 people attend the celebration.
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In Chandler Arizona they hold a parade and Chihuahua races each year and crown a King and a Queen Chihuahua.
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Some of the foods that are popular on May 5th include enchiladas, tacos, burritos and guacamole. Some of the popular drinks include tequila and margaritas.
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When Mexicans defeated the French, it also impacted the U.S. It made it impossible for Napolean III the ability to get supplies to the Confederate rebels.
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A year after Mexico defeated the French army they came back with 30,000 soldiers and took Mexico City. It only lasted for three years, until Mexico took control once again.
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Since the Battle at Pueblo, no European country has ever invaded the Americas.
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In 2006, there were at least 150 official Cinco de Mayo events taking place in the U.S.
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In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated mainly in Pueblo, Mexico. It is not as popular in the rest of the country.
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It is more popular in the U.S. then it is in Mexico.
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It is also celebrated in Malta, a country right below Italy.
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In Canada, there is a Cinco de Mayo Street Festival held in Windsor, Ontario. A Vancouver, British Columbia sky diving clubs holds a Cinco de Mayo sky diving event.
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There are also celebrations in the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands, Montego Bay, Australia, London, Paris and even New Zealand.
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All the public schools in Mexico are closed on May 5th.
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