Although the Franco-Mexican War (1861-1867) isn't the most famous international contretemps English-language history books ever saw fit to hype, the Battle of Puebla – which resulted in the Mexican Army's May 5, 1862, victory over French forces – has been immortalized as the super-catchy "Cinco de Mayo." It’s an historical footnote in Mexico – kind of the equivalent of Secretary's Day – but in the U.S. it’s grown along with the immigrant population into a chimichanga-size celebration of Mexican heritage and culture. Even if you're going to Boise to visit grandma, it’s not a bad idea to take a Rosetta Stone Spanish course if you plan to venture out.
With a little Mexican Army determination of my own, I decide to venture beyond the street festivals, parades and mariachi performances and ask a few Hispanic comedians what the confetti-filled holiday means.
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