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.