When Mexico and France Went to War Over Baked Goods

Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

Contrary to what many people think, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day (that’s September 16) or even a public holiday in Mexico. Instead, it marks Mexico’s May 5, 1862, victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War.

Cinco de Mayo is a reminder that France and Mexico had quite the belligerent relationship going in the 19th century. So much so that the two countries went to war over—wait for it—baked goods. (Although they are serious about their croissants in France.)

Click here to read about The Pastry War in the May 2021 edition of the Throwback, my monthly e-newsletter. Also, a look back at the 1990 Isabella Gardner Museum heist and ABC’s Wide World of Sports.

Leave a Comment