Cinco de Mayo: Yesterday and Today

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the May 5, 1862 battle of Puebla, in which Mexican forces, including ordinary citizens, repelled invading French soldiers. It is a day celebrated by Mexicans and Mexican Americans as a cultural event of seminal significance. This basic introduction to Cinco de Mayo explains the history of the holiday and why it continues to resonate. Historical sources and gorgeous illustrations — including hand-colored French and Mexican engravings along with full-color photographs of a contemporary celebration — bring Cinco de May to life for young readers.