Sunday is Cinco de Mayo. Do you know the history behind the day?

May 2, 2024

2 min



Celebrated annually on May 5th, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army's victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. While often associated with festive gatherings and cultural celebrations, Cinco de Mayo also holds significant relevance beyond its historical origins, offering various story angles that appeal to a broad audience.


  • Cultural significance and heritage preservation: Explore the historical context of Cinco de Mayo and its importance in Mexican culture, highlighting the traditions, food, music, and art associated with the holiday.
  • Immigration and identity: Examine how Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in different parts of the world, particularly in the United States, and its role in shaping the Mexican-American identity and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
  • Political implications and national pride: Investigate the political undertones of Cinco de Mayo, considering its significance in Mexican nationalism and its portrayal in international relations.
  • Economic impact and tourism: Analyze the economic implications of Cinco de Mayo festivities, including the boost in tourism, sales of Mexican-themed products, and the commercialization of cultural heritage.
  • Education and historical awareness: Discuss the educational value of Cinco de Mayo in schools and communities, examining how it promotes historical awareness, tolerance, and multiculturalism.
  • Social justice and activism: Explore how Cinco de Mayo intersects with social justice movements, addressing issues such as immigration reform, cultural appropriation, and representation in media and politics.



By covering these angles, journalists can provide their audiences with a deeper understanding of Cinco de Mayo beyond its surface-level festivities, fostering meaningful dialogue and engagement with the holiday's historical, cultural, and societal significance.


Connect with an Expert about Cinco de Mayo:


Margarita R. Ochoa

Associate Professor and Associate Chair of History · Loyola Marymount University


Timothy Matovina

Chair, Department of Theology · University of Notre Dame


Rodrigo Vargas

Professor, Ecosystem Ecology and Environmental Change · University of Delaware


Heather Chiero, PhD

Associate Professor of History, Anthropology and Philosophy · Augusta University


To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com




Photo Credit: Daniel Lloyd Blunk-Fernández


You might also like...

Check out some other posts from ExpertFile

1 min

#ExpertSpotlight : Notre Dame

Notre Dame Cathedral, an iconic symbol of Paris and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, has stood for centuries as a testament to human creativity, spirituality, and resilience. This historic landmark continues to captivate global attention not only for its artistic and religious significance but also for its ability to endure and inspire amidst challenges like the devastating 2019 fire. Notre Dame matters to the public because it embodies cultural heritage, historical memory, and the ongoing effort to preserve monuments of global importance. Key story angles that may interest a broad audience include: The architectural and artistic marvels of Notre Dame: Exploring its iconic design, stained glass windows, and cultural influence on art and literature. The 2019 fire and restoration efforts: Highlighting the international response, the challenges of restoring historical structures, and the role of modern technology in reconstruction. Notre Dame's role in French and global history: Examining its significance during key historical events, including coronations, revolutions, and wartime preservation. Religious and spiritual importance: Understanding the cathedral’s role as a center for Catholic worship and its influence on interfaith dialogue. The impact of Notre Dame on tourism and local culture: Analyzing how the cathedral shapes Parisian identity and attracts millions of visitors annually. The future of Notre Dame: Discussing sustainability in historical preservation and how the restoration aligns with broader cultural and environmental goals. Connect with an expert about Notre Dame: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

1 min

ExpertSpotlight: Origins and History of Santa Claus

Santa Claus, the beloved figure at the heart of modern Christmas celebrations, has a rich history rooted in centuries of global tradition and folklore. His story originates from Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity, and has evolved over time through cultural influences from Europe to North America. Santa's transformation into the jolly, red-suited icon we recognize today reflects not only the blending of mythologies but also the commercialization and globalization of Christmas. Understanding Santa’s origins offers valuable insights into cultural exchange, religious traditions, and societal values. Key story angles of interest include: The historical figure of Saint Nicholas and his influence on Santa Claus How Scandinavian folklore shaped Santa's association with winter and gifts The commercialization of Santa Claus in 19th and 20th-century America Depictions of Santa across cultures, from Europe’s Sinterklaas to Russia’s Ded Moroz The role of advertising, particularly Coca-Cola, in shaping Santa’s modern image Santa Claus as a symbol of generosity and its implications for holiday consumerism Connect with an expert about the Origins and History of Santa Claus: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

2 min

ExpertSpotlight: The History of Presidential Pardons in America

Presidential pardons have long been a cornerstone of executive power in the United States, granting the president the ability to forgive federal offenses. Rooted in the Constitution and modeled after the British royal prerogative, this authority has sparked significant legal and ethical debates since the nation’s founding. Understanding the history and implications of presidential pardons provides insights into American governance, justice, and the balance of power. This topic presents compelling opportunities for journalists to delve into its historical and contemporary significance. Key story angles include: Origins of the Presidential Pardon: Exploring how and why the pardon power was enshrined in the Constitution, including influences from English law and debates among the Founding Fathers. The First Presidential Pardon: Detailing the story of George Washington’s 1795 pardon of participants in the Whiskey Rebellion and its impact on shaping the use of executive clemency. Controversial Pardons in History: Investigating high-profile pardons, such as those granted by Presidents Andrew Johnson, Gerald Ford, and Donald Trump, and their political and social ramifications. Legal and Ethical Perspectives: Examining what legal scholars and historians say about the scope of pardon power, including debates over its limits and potential for misuse. Pardons and Social Justice: Highlighting cases where pardons were used to address systemic injustices, such as civil rights-era convictions or drug-related offenses. Comparing Global Practices: Analyzing how the U.S. approach to executive clemency compares to pardon systems in other democracies and the broader implications for justice. The history and evolution of presidential pardons open the door to meaningful discussions about justice, accountability, and the executive branch’s influence, offering journalists a wealth of perspectives to explore. Connect with an expert about the History of Presidential Pardons in America: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

View all posts