On May 5, 1862, against all odds, the Mexican army defeated a much larger and better equipped French army at the battle of Puebla. To this day, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in Mexico and the US as a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride, both of which are eminently worthy of celebration.

We love it when the underdog comes out on top, when the oppressor is beaten back, especially when the oppressor is perceived as someone other than ourselves. I'm sure the French had a much different view of having their drive to Mexico City interrupted. They countered with a yet larger force, overwhelmed the defenders, captured the capital, and installed Emperor Maximilian I as ruler of Mexico. In 1867 the city was retaken and Maximilian executed. Thus ended the French empire in the Americas. As they say, history books are written by the victors.

May the day soon come when we treat each other with respect and live in peace.