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
- What is the name of the desert planet in "Dune"?
- Who was the first woman to be both host and musical guest on "Saturday Night Live"?
- What was the first song with a rap verse to hit #1?
- What is the most expensive album ever produced?
- What's the name of the military radio station in “Good Morning, Vietnam”?
- Stevie Wonder’s "My Cherie Amour" was originally the B-side of which single?
- How long does it take the International Space Station to circle Earth?
- Where does the butler try to send the cats in "The Aristocats"?