1. The holiday celebrates the 'Battle of Puebla' in 1862.<br />2. At Puebla, Mexico's army surprisingly defeated France's much larger forces.<br />3. Despite the victory, Mexico ended up losing the war against France.<br />4. Mexico began the holiday in 1862, but does not recognize it nationally anymore.<br />5. The U.S. adopted it in 1933 to strengthen its ties with Mexico.<br />6. It became a U.S. national holiday only as recently as 2005.<br />7. California has celebrated it since 1863.<br />8. The official dish of Cinco de Mayo is called 'mole poblano,' a sauce that includes chocolate.<br />9. Countries like Australia and Japan also celebrate Cinco de Mayo now as well.<br />10. The signature dance of Cinco de Mayo is called Baile folklórico and is normally performed with mariachi music.
