Happy Cinco De Mayo, Feliz Cinco De Mayo

According to the video below, In 1862, French Emperor Napoleon III invaded Mexico to collect a debt, but he wanted to reinstate his own “puppeteer,” Maximillian II, to reign over Mexico. A leading general over the French was General Charles De Lorencez, who won many wars in Algeria and Russia. They defeated Mexico with little resistance until the French Army went to a small city called Puebla, reigned under General Ignacio Zaragoza, who won many battles before. Only 33 years old, he fought back the French! Some thought the French army would win because of their resources, but this scenario proves that rich people should never underestimate people with low resources.

The Battle of Puebla was a significant event in the larger context of the French intervention in Mexico. The Mexican Army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, experienced only 221 casualties, a relatively small number compared to the French losses. As Al’s review states, ‘In the Battle of Puebla, the French army suffered an estimated 476-500 deaths, including those killed in action and those who died from wounds. Additionally, over 300 French soldiers were wounded.’ With the Mexican forces inflicting heavy losses on the French, this victory was a military triumph and a significant morale boost for the Mexican people. It was a testament to their resilience and a source of inspiration that strengthened their resolve in the face of adversity.

According to Google, ‘Estimates place French casualties around 460 dead with almost that many wounded, while only 83 Mexicans were killed. Lorencez’s quick retreat prevented the defeat from becoming a disaster, but still, the battle became a huge morale-booster for the Mexicans.’ The Battle of Puebla, with its surprisingly low Mexican casualties and the significant losses suffered by the French, served as a powerful inspiration for the Mexican people, instilling a sense of national pride and strengthening their resolve in the face of foreign intervention.