Feliz Cinco de Mayo

[dnalexander]

Cinco de Mayo

History
In 1861, Mexico ceased making interest payments to its main creditors. In response, in late 1861, France (and other European countries) attacked Mexico to try to force payment of this debt. France decided that it would try to take over and occupy Mexico. France was successful at first in its invasion; however, on May 5, 1862, at the city of Puebla, Mexican forces were able to defeat an attack by the larger French army. In this Battle of Puebla, the Mexicans were led by General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín. Although the Mexican army was victorious over the French at Puebla, the victory only delayed the French invasion on Mexico City; a year later, the French occupied Mexico. The French occupying forces placed Maximilian I, Emperor of Mexico on the throne of Mexico. The French, under U.S. pressure, eventually withdrew in 1866-1867. Maximilian was executed by President Benito Juarez, five years after the Battle of Puebla.

United States

In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has taken on a significance beyond that in Mexico.[12][14][15][16] The date is perhaps best recognized in the United States as a date to celebrate the culture and experiences of Americans of Mexican ancestry, much as St. Patrick's Day, Oktoberfest, and the Chinese New Year are used to celebrate those of Irish, German, and Chinese ancestry respectively. Similar to those holidays, Cinco de Mayo is observed by many Americans regardless of ethnic origin. Celebrations tend to draw both from traditional Mexican symbols, such as the Virgen de Guadalupe, and from prominent figures of Mexican descent in the United States, including César Chávez.[17] To celebrate, many display Cinco de Mayo banners while school districts hold special events to educate pupils about its historical significance. Special events and celebrations highlight Mexican culture, especially in its music and regional dancing. Examples include ballet folklórico and mariachi demonstrations held annually at the Plaza del Pueblo de Los Angeles, near Olvera Street. Commercial interests in the United States have capitalized on the celebration, advertising Mexican products and services, with an emphasis on beverages,[18] foods, and music.[19][20]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinco_de_Mayo

David

[Diane Amberg]

Gracias por la leccion historia. Feliz Cinco de Mayo a usted tambien.

[dnalexander]

Diane, La historia es un tema muy importante para mí. Me alegro de que le gustaba la historia.

You are taxing my Spanish speaking ability. History is an important topic to me in all its forms. I am glad you liked the lesson.

David

[Diane Amberg]

    16 de septiembre encluso mas importante in Mexico. Es para ellos el dia de la Independencia.

[dnalexander]

    16 de septiembre encluso mas importante in Mexico. Es para ellos el dia de la Independencia.

Diane that is true. Many people confuse Cinco de Mayo with Mexico's Independence Day which is why I posted the links to the history of Cinco de Mayo.

David

[sixdogsmom]

Well I have learned something today; now if I can get it translated, I will be uptown!  Actually, I was able to read and understand much more than I would have thought, and I was also one of those who did not understand the real Cinco De Mayo celebration! Thanks to you both!

[dnalexander]

Well I have learned something today; now if I can get it translated, I will be uptown!  Actually, I was able to read and understand much more than I would have thought, and I was also one of those who did not understand the real Cinco De Mayo celebration! Thanks to you both!

I said Happy May 5th. or Cinco de Mayo. Then posted some info.

Diane said thanks for the history lesson. Happy Cinco deMayo to you too.

My response iin Spanish was basically the same as the English portion.

Diane said September 16 is also very important in Mexico. It is their Independence day.

Then I switched back to English, because Diane speaks better Spanish than I do and was making me think too hard. I have forgotten most of my Spanish. Now I speak what is called "kitchen Spanish"  which consists of English and Spanish and derives it's name from it's use in restaurant kitchens all over the US.

David

David

[Diane Amberg]

 David, siento que tenia que trabajar. Pardon mi por favor !

[Dee Gee]

I thought that English was the language of Elk county .

[dnalexander]

David, siento que tenia que trabajar. Pardon mi por favor !

Alright Diane stop it. You lost me. But I think you said something to the effect of Pardon me, I had to work hard too.

David