The 5th of May is known as Cinco de Mayo in Spanish. It is also known as
the Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla, and it is a holiday commemorating a
military victory over Napoleon III's French forces in 1862 that is observed
in some parts of Mexico and the United States.
English, Spanish, and French forces invaded Mexico in 1861 after the country
announced a temporary moratorium on the repayment of foreign debts.
The French remained after the English and Spanish left in April 1862 with
the help of wealthy landowners in an effort to impose a monarchy under Maximilian
of Austria and to restrain U. S. North American dominance.
A poorly-equipped mestizo and Zapotec force led by General Ignacio Zaragoza
defeated French troops on May 5, 1862, southeast of Mexico City, at the Battle
of Puebla; about 1,000 French soldiers perished in the battle.
Despite the fact that fighting persisted and it took another five years for
the French to be expelled, the victory at Puebla came to represent Mexico's
resistance to foreign hegemony.
A museum honoring the conflict is located in the city, which was later renamed
Puebla de Zaragoza, and the actual battleground is still used today as a park.
Although the majority of the rest of the country pays little attention to
the day, it is celebrated in the state of Puebla with parades, speeches, and
battle reenactments.
The Cinco de Mayo holiday became a way for Mexican immigrants in the United
States to promote pride in their Mexican heritage during the middle of the 20th
century.
Contrary to Mexican Independence Day, which falls on September 16, Cinco
de Mayo is a separate holiday. About 50 years before the Battle of Puebla took
place, the latter holiday was instituted in 1810.
Cinco de Mayo is a topic covered here: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Cinco-de-Mayo.
Winter storms are sweeping across the US, bringing snow emergencies in the Northeast and flooding in the Pacific Northwest. Stay safe with driving tips, shelter resources, and pet care guidance, plus direct links to emergency services.
Use official sources for live alerts and road conditions. Follow your local authorities' advice and guidance immediately by staying off roads or evacuating.
Current situation across the United States
Severe winter weather is affecting multiple regions across the country. In the Northeast, heavy snow and ice are creating hazardous travel conditions, while the Pacific Northwest is dealing with widespread flooding, evacuations, saturated ground, and powerful winds. Staying prepared, remaining aware of conditions, and knowing where to find shelter are essential for keeping both people and pets safe.
In industries where a fraction of a millimeter can mean the difference between success and failure, precision is everything. From the sleek curves of an aerospace fuselage to the intricate components of a medical device, the ability to cut metal with exacting accuracy is the backbone of modern manufacturing.
Older urban buildings carry a unique character, from ornate facades to intricate interior details. These qualities create both charm and responsibility for residents, property managers, and city planners.
As communities gather this Sunday, December 7th, to remember, we look back at a single morning that reshaped a nation, examine the causes and consequences of the attack, and reflect on how Hawai‘i and the world carried forward the work of healing and reconciliation.
A Morning That Changed the World
On a clear morning that remains etched into the pages of history, aircraft appeared over Pearl Harbor and the United States Pacific Fleet was struck in a surprise assault. In fewer than two hours, battleships burned, aircraft were destroyed on the ground, and more than 2,400 American service members and civilians lost their lives. The attack thrust the United States into the global conflict of World War II and set in motion a series of events that would transform both the Pacific and the world.
Hitting the open road brings a sense of freedom, but it also brings the challenge of packing. You likely want to bring everything you need without compromising safety or comfort inside the vehicle. However, improperly secured loads can lead to lost luggage and cause serious safety hazards for other drivers on the road.
