How to distinguish Mexican Independence Day from Cinco de Mayo

Mexican independence began Sept. 16, 1810, when father Hidalgo rang his church's bell calling his countrymen to revolution.

It is a common misconception among many Americans that Cinco De Mayo is Mexico's Independence Day. The two holidays are actually quite different--they celebrate different events in Mexican history and are held at different times in the year. Knowing the difference between these two important days can save you the embarrassment of calling them by the wrong name. Being able to tell them apart will win you respect from your Mexican coworkers and friends.

Instructions

1. 

   The events the two holidays commemorate are separated by over fifty years.

   Look at the calendar. Cinco de Mayo (as the name suggests) takes place on the fifth of May, while Mexican Independence Day is celebrated on Sept. 16.

2. 

   Though both events have a connection to France, Mexican Independence Day technically celebrates liberation from Spain.

   Know your dates. Mexican Independence Day celebrates the beginning of Mexico's revolt against Spanish rule and José Bonaparte (Napoleon's brother), who had been installed as King of Spain in 1808. Cinco De Mayo celebrates Mexico defeating French invaders 50 years later at the battle of Puebla.

3. 

   Mariachi music is often associated with Cinco De Mayo celebrations.

   Understand the celebrations. Cinco de Mayo is a much better recognized date in the United States because of commercial interests. Over the past decade, companies and communities began marketing to growing Hispanic populations around Cinco de Mayo with food, games, and parades that celebrated their ethnic heritage. However, in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in and around the Puebla region, where the famous battle was fought, it is much more of a regional holiday, while Mexican Independence Day is celebrated nationally.

Tips & Warnings

• Try quizzing your friends on or around Cinco De Mayo to see if they know the difference.

References

• Inside Mexico: An Explanation of Mexican Independence Day
• MEXonline: The History of Cinco De Mayo