In 1861, incoming Mexican President Benito Juarez, having inherited a bankrupt treasury and weary citizens, declared a two-year moratorium on paying down any of Mexico's foreign debt. The outcry in Europe was tremendous, and soon representatives from Spain, Great Britain, and France agreed to ascend on the port of Veracruz to collect their monies. The intent was to take over the customhouse and apply all incoming customs receipts to the debt, not to interfere with the Mexican government.

England and Spain were sincere, but France brought 4,500 troops and began marching inland on the path toward occupation. President Juarez, however, didn't concur. Encountering unexpected opposition on May 5, 1862, the French attacked and within two hours had expended half of their ammunition. The invaders, having grown accustomed to more glorious days in battle, retreated with haste. And May 5 — Cinco de Mayo — soon became the most celebrated of Mexican holidays.