Cinco de Mayo…..
Commemorating this day in 1862, when a fledgling Mexican army defeated much larger and better equipped French forces. The French, looking to set up a French empire in Mexico, had invaded with 8,000 troops. On May 5, 1862, the much smaller Mexican army of 4,000 troops defeated the French near Puebla providing a large morale boost for the Mexican population. However a year later the French, now with 30,000 troops, were able to defeat the Mexican army and installed Emperor Maximilian I as ruler of Mexico. This victory too was short lived. After the American Civil War ended, the U.S. was able to provide support to Mexico and help expel the French. In the U.S. Cinco de Mayo has become a time to celebrate Mexican-American culture.
The Hindenburg Disaster – “Oh, the Humanity!”…..
May 6, 1937…..
The Hindenburg Disaster – “Oh, the Humanity!” News reporter Herbert Morrison makes his famous proclamation, “Oh, the Humanity!” as he witnesses the disaster unfolding. The giant airship Hindenburg explodes and burns killing 36 people while preparing to land at Lakehurst, New Jersey. The exact cause of the fire has never been determined, but theories range from a hydrogen leak, sabotage from either crew or passengers, static electricity, and a flammable coating on the skin of the craft. This disaster marked the end of the airship era.
World War II – Germany Surrenders…..
May 7, 1945…..
Germany surrenders ending the war in Europe. All military action was to stop at midnight.