Featured Post from ExpertFile

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

2 min

#ExpertSpotlght: What are Most popular Christmas Traditions Around the World?

Christmas is celebrated in diverse and unique ways across the globe, reflecting cultural, historical, and spiritual influences that shape holiday traditions. From religious ceremonies to festive customs, this season highlights the shared human desire for connection, generosity, and joy. Understanding how different cultures celebrate Christmas provides a lens into global diversity and shared humanity. As the holiday season approaches, this topic invites journalists to explore traditions that captivate and inspire. Key story angles include: Regional Christmas Celebrations: Highlighting iconic traditions such as Germany’s Christmas markets, Mexico’s Las Posadas, or Japan’s Christmas Eve feasts of fried chicken. Religious and Spiritual Practices: Examining how Christian and non-Christian communities observe the holiday, including Midnight Mass, Epiphany celebrations, and adaptations in secular societies. The Evolution of Santa Claus: Tracing the history of Santa Claus from St. Nicholas to modern depictions, including variations like Ded Moroz in Russia or Sinterklaas in the Netherlands. Festive Foods and Feasts: Exploring traditional holiday dishes and drinks, such as panettone in Italy, pavlova in Australia, or tamales in Latin America. Sustainability and Modern Trends: Investigating how global movements toward eco-consciousness are reshaping Christmas traditions, from minimalist gift-giving to eco-friendly decorations. Music, Art, and Storytelling: Highlighting the role of Christmas carols, nativity plays, and folklore in preserving cultural heritage and fostering community spirit. Exploring Christmas traditions around the world offers a rich tapestry of stories that celebrate cultural diversity, historical roots, and the universal themes of love and generosity. Connect with an expert about Christmas Traditions: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

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

View all posts
Powered by