I remember a few years ago driving by On the Border on May 5th and seeing swarms of people gathered outside on the patio drinking, dancing, and eating guacamole. I would have loved to survey the crowd to see how many of them knew what they were “celebrating.” (Of course other than half priced margaritas and tacos). Did any of them really know even one fact about Cinco de Mayo history?
I know some Spanish teachers are hesitant to teach about Cinco de Mayo for this very reason. Cinco de Mayo is not understood in the United States, and not even widely celebrated in Mexico. But, this means we actually should make a point of teaching Cinco de Mayo history and Cinco de Mayo activities in our Spanish classes. We are the ones that will provide insight to our students. We are the ones that students learn Hispanic culture from. They won’t learn it from the local restaurant’s Cinco de Mayo fiesta. Be the teacher that provides accurate information and knowledge about this very important moment in Mexican history.
So, what should we be teaching our students about Cinco de Mayo? What do you really know about the holiday? Give yourself a quick history lesson and then check out my best suggestions for helping your students appreciate and understand Cinco de Mayo.
Cinco de Mayo History Lesson Ideas
What do your students know about Cinco de Mayo?
As you have probably realized, your students have preconceived notions as to what Cinco de Mayo is commemorating. If you took a survey of your class to find out what they think Cinco de Mayo is actually celebrating, what do you think they would say? (and maybe you want to do this before you introduce Cinco de Mayo. It may give you a laugh… or make you cringe.)
As a bonus activity, you could even have your classes survey the student population (or other world language classes) to see what they know about Cinco de Mayo history. Then, after your lessons, encourage your students to create posters, videos, infographics, or other forms of presentations to hang around school or share on your morning announcements explaining the true meaning behind Cinco de Mayo.
Before taking on a lesson about Cinco de Mayo, make sure that you can accurately describe the basics of the battle that May 5th is honoring. Here are some Cinco de Mayo fast facts for you to base your lessons on. Then, keep reading for videos and activities to show your students.
Mexico vs. France
Cinco de Mayo celebrates the date of May 5, 1862, when the Mexican army was victorious over the French Army during the Battle of Puebla. Mexico was in great debt to many European governments during this time. When the newly elected Mexican President, Benito Juárez took office, he was forced to default on the debt payments to these European countries.
France, Britain, and Spain demanded repayment of their debts, so they sent naval forces to Mexico. Both Britain and Spain were able to negotiate with Mexico and return home. However, France did not come to an agreement with Mexico. So, the French army decided to fight.
The Battle of Puebla
The well-equipped French army sent 6,000 troops to attack Puebla, a small town in Mexico. Juárez was only able to gather 2,000 men, many of whom were indigenous Mexicans. He sent them to Puebla to fight. From any bystander’s view, one would easily assume the French army would completely destroy the smaller, weaker Mexican army.
However… The Mexicans, despite being greatly outnumbered, conquered the French army and were victorious. By the end of the day on May 5, the French army lost nearly 500 soldiers, and the Mexicans lost fewer than 100. Now, if that is not a reason to celebrate, then I don’t know what is! Puebla is a true symbol of Mexican resistance and strength. Being the poorer, less-equipped, and smaller army almost always means you are destined for failure. But this unexpected victory by the Mexican army is the reason that Cinco de Mayo is still honored to this day.
Historical Figures
As with any great success (or failure) in history, great people should be honored for their efforts. If you’re looking to highlight some of the major historical figures of Cinco de Mayo, here are a few that I recommend. Also, I have a flip book that briefly describes a few of these figures, in addition to the other historical context of the battle.
- Benito Juárez – A lawyer and member of the Indigenous Zapotec tribe who was elected President of Mexico in 1861.
- Napoleon III – The ruler of France during the Battle of Puebla
- General Ignacio Zaragoza – the leader of the Mexican army during the Battle of Puebla
How is Cinco de Mayo celebrated in Mexico?
Your students may assume that Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in Mexico by people wearing sombreros, drinking margaritas, and eating tacos. They would be sorely mistaken! Cinco de Mayo celebrations are mainly held in Puebla, not widely spread throughout all of Mexico. There are recreations of the battles, parades, and other festivities. To make a cultural comparison, have students discuss how Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in the US in comparison to the celebrations that occur in Puebla.
Authentic Videos of Cinco de Mayo
One of the best ways to get students to experience culture within the four walls of our classroom is through the power of video! Try showing some of these videos to help your students understand what a real Cinco de Mayo celebration is like in Puebla.
Cinco de Mayo Activities for Spanish Class
Cinco de Mayo Flip Book
To save you time, get a whole history and cultural lesson in just one interactive notebook or flip book. With these six pages, your students will learn a little bit of everything! It covers the history of the battle, historical figures, and make comparisons between Mexican and United States celebrations.
This flip book makes a great sub plan! Additionally, you can also use it for a comprehensible input lesson, or just a fun activity to take a break from content. Here is a Spanish version of the flipbook or an English version.
Cinco de Mayo Choice Boards
If you want your students to have more of a hands-on learning experience with Cinco de Mayo, then a choice board is your best option. With these Novice and Intermediate levels choice boards, your students dive deeper into Cinco de Mayo history. They will investigate historical figures, celebrations and more of Puebla. Plus, choice boards let your students choose the type of project they want to create. And when they have more choice, they are more likely to put effort and initiative into the final product. Read about how to use choice boards here.
Don’t be turned off by the idea of teaching about Cinco de Mayo. That hesitation should be the very reason you want to spread awareness of Cinco de Mayo history. We need to educate our students on the history of Cinco de Mayo.
