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In 1861, a commemorated battle was fought in Mexico. The country was, at the time, financially poor. France, Britain, and Spain each sent their naval forces to Veracruz, Mexico, demanding repayment. Britain and Spain were able to negotiate with Mexico, withdrawing their forces, while France decided they wanted Mexican territory. Napoleon III ruled France at the time, sending a French fleet to storm Veracruz, driving President Juárez and his government out. The French were certain that they would succeed and sent 6,000 troops to attack Puebla de Los Angeles, a rather small town located in east-central Mexico. Juárez was able to create a force of 2,000 loyal men. Vastly outnumbered and with little supplies, they prepared for a French assault in a small town. It was May 5, 1862, when Lorencez gathered his army with supported artillery and led an assault to the city of Puebla, which was taken over by the French. The battle lasted from sunrise till evening, resulting in more dead Frenchmen than Mexicans. The French finally withdrew when the United States was in position to aid Mexico.

Every year on May 5, Mexicans and non-Mexicans in the United States, celebrate Cinco de mayo. There are parades as well as parties, traditional Mexican music, dancing, and authentic Mexican foods on this day. The colors that represent Cinco de Mayo are red, white, and green, just like the Mexican flag.

Most Americans celebrate Cinco De Mayo as an Independence Day for Mexico. While Mexico celebrates it as a military day.