French Intervention in Mexico: Mexicans Win on Cinco de Mayo!

May 5, 1862 - Mexican troops are victorious at the Battle of Puebla (right). After retreating in the face of advancing French troops, General Ignacio Zaragoza elected to turn and give battle at the fortified city of Puebla. Selecting a strong defensive position on high ground, Zaragoza anchored his line on Forts Loreto and Guadalupe. Arriving at Puebla, the French commander, Major General Charles de Lorencez, assessed the situation and, against the advice of subordinates, decided to attempt storming the heights. Moving forward on May 5, the French assault was preceded by an artillery bombardment. Though supported by the heavy guns, the first French assault failed. In an effort to spread out Zaragoza's line, Lorencez ordered another assault which was supported by a diversionary attack towards the city. While the attack on the heights faltered and failed, the secondary attack was only repulsed after hand-to-hand fighting. Lacking sufficient ammunition for the artillery, the final French attack on the heights went forward without support and was beaten back. Seeing an opportunity, Zaragoza attacked on both flanks with his cavalry, forcing the French to flee the field.

Photograph Source: Public Domain