Mexican Independence Day And Cinco De Mayo

The origins and traditions of these two special holidays are presented in this illustrated reference book with full-color photos for middle readers.

Why is Cinco de Mayo—a holiday commemorating a Mexican victory over the French at Puebla in 1862—so widely celebrated in California and across the United States, when it is scarcely observed in Mexico? As David E. Hayes-Bautista explains, the holiday is not Mexican at all, but rather an American one, created by Latinos in California during the mid-nineteenth century. Hayes-Bautista shows how the meaning of Cinco de Mayo has shifted over time—it embodied immigrant nostalgia in the 1930s, U.S. patriotism during World War II, Chicano Power in the 1960s and 1970s, and commercial intentions in the 1980s and 1990s. Today, it continues to reflect the aspirations of a community that is engaged, empowered, and expanding.

Describes the role of the battle that took place in Puebla, Mexico, on May 5, 1862 in Mexican history, and explains how its anniversary is celebrated in Mexico and the United States and the customs and symbols associated with the holiday.

Despite what many people believe, Cinco de Mayo isn't the day Mexico celebrates its independence. The holiday, celebrated on May 5th each year, actually commemorates the date Mexican troops defeated the French more than 150 years ago. In this book, readers will find information about the history of Cinco de Mayo, including where and how it's celebrated around the world. Interestingly, it's a much bigger deal in the United States than in other countries, even Mexico. Colorful images bring the celebration to splendid focus on each page, drawing readers into the fascinating history of this Mexican holiday.

Six bilingual children's stories from Mexico.

¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo! This annual fiesta began after a historical Mexican military victory, and now it is celebrated in many parts of the United States. Learn about food, music, and more through full-color photographs, diagrams, and other nonfiction text features. Age-appropriate critical thinking questions help readers delve more deeply into the content.

Cinco de Mayo is often mistaken as a celebration of Mexican independence. The true story behind this holiday is a remarkable battle in which an outnumbered Mexican force, including many farmworkers, defeated the powerful French army outside Mexico City in 1862. Readers will enjoy learning more about this battle as well as how people celebrate on May 5 each year. Colorful photographs and illustrations further enhance the accessible text.