Which Mexican holiday on September 16 is often confused with Cinco de Mayo?

Mexican Independence Day, celebrated on September 16, is often confused with Cinco de Mayo.

Mexican Independence Day commemorates the start of Mexico’s war for independence from Spain. The movement began in 1810 when the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla issued the Grito de Dolores, calling for revolt against Spanish colonial rule.

Cinco de Mayo has a different historical subject: Mexico’s army defeated the invading French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. It does not mark Mexican independence, which was achieved after a longer struggle and recognized in 1821.

The confusion is especially common outside Mexico because both dates are associated with Mexican heritage and national pride. In Mexico, Independence Day is the larger nationwide patriotic holiday, while Cinco de Mayo has particular importance in Puebla and has become especially prominent in the United States.