Difference between 4th Of July and Cinco De Mayo
For many people in the United States, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated with just as much fervor as the 4th of July…even more so in some cases. In fact, possibly more people in the United States celebrate this holiday than in Mexico, which is made less surprising when you consider the role of certain sectors in the United States in the establishment of this holiday. Let's take a closer look at both colorful celebrations.
What They Are
The 4th of July or the American Independence Day is a national holiday that is celebrated in honor of the Declaration of Independence from British rule on July 4, 1776. This is a federal holiday in the country and it is also the national day of the United States.
Cinco de Mayo on the other hand is a holiday that is celebrated in honor of the Mexican army's surprising victory over the French military in the Battle of Puebla, which transpired on May 5, 1862. This victory was achieved under the command of General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín.
Significance
As you can imagine, 4th of July is taken very seriously in the United States, particularly in the years following 9/11. In fact, the holiday has achieved an even deeper significance given the recent events in American history and its garish aspects merely underscore the true meaning of this special day to many. So significant is this event in fact that many politicians take it upon themselves to use the occasion to make a public appearance.
It is interesting to note that for such an overtly Hispanic event, Cinco de Mayo isn't actually widely celebrated in Mexico, with the obvious exception of Puebla. In fact, the holiday is largely ignored in many parts of Mexico, although it has been celebrated in California since 1863.
How They are Celebrated
4th of July is typically celebrated in the United States with fireworks…and plenty of them! Most towns and cities all over the country feature some sort of fireworks display and local celebrants may set off a few themselves. 4th of July celebrations are also usually whole-day outdoor affairs stretching well into the evening and parades are a common sight as well.
As for Cinco de Mayo, most people celebrate with lavish banquets and picnics, with plenty of singing and dancing that celebrates Mexico and all its traditions. The advertising firms largely responsible for its current popularity, target college and bar frequenting crowds.
Summary
4th of July
- The Independence Day of the United States
- Held to commemorate the country’s freedom from Great Britain
- Is usually marked by fireworks displays and parades
- Celebrations are often whole day outdoor events
Cinco de Mayo
- A totally different holiday from the Mexican Independence Day, which is celebrated in September
- Celebrated primarily by citizens of Puebla and Americans
- Celebrated in a very limited fashion in Mexico
- Was actually established in the United States by college students in California
- Characterized by food, music, and folk dances
