Question
In 1862, Mexico was struggling under massive foreign debt when European troops landed on their shores, claiming they were there to collect. An empire saw its chance to establish a foothold in the Americas. When thousands of imperial soldiers marched toward Mexico City, history was about to be made. Which empire's defeat do we celebrate on Cinco de Mayo?
▼
Correct Answer: French Empire
Mexico stunned the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, when 2,000 Mexican troops crushed Napoleon III's supposedly unbeatable army. The French returned with more firepower and took Mexico City a year later, but that didn't stop Puebla's unlikely victory from becoming a rallying cry for Mexican pride and independence.
Share This Trivia
Want More Nostalgia?
Check out our other quizzes and random trivia questions!
More Trivia
- Which actress played Rachel's sister Jill on "Friends"?
- Which Lucille Ball sitcom ran for the fewest episodes?
- What is the most-watched TV interview in history?
- Which TV show inspired the term "jumping the shark"?
- Who voices Dodger in "Oliver & Company"?
- Why was dancing banned in "Footloose"?
- Who is the only actor to win an Oscar for portraying a U.S. president?
- Which plant is used to make tequila?