General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín
Cinco de Mayo is a holiday celebrated in Mexico and the United States to commemorate the Mexican army’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The general of the Mexican army during this battle was General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín.
Early Life
Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín was born in 1829 in what is now the state of Coahuila, Mexico. He was the son of a Spanish immigrant and a Mexican mother. He joined the Mexican army at an early age and rose through the ranks quickly, eventually becoming a general.
Leadership During Cinco de Mayo
In 1862, General Zaragoza was given command of the Mexican army that faced off against the French forces at the Battle of Puebla. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, Zaragoza led his troops to victory against the French. This victory would become known as Cinco de Mayo and is still celebrated today.
Legacy
General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín is remembered as a hero for his leadership during Cinco de Mayo. His legacy lives on in Mexico where he is honored with statues, monuments, and streets named after him. He is also remembered in Texas where he served as a leader during the Civil War.