The third point is not the whole story. Yes, they prevailed, but only briefly. The French were so pissed that they sent more troops over, who won, and Maximillian was installed as Emperor. But why were the French there to begin with tho'? Because they had lent the Mexicans money and Mexico reneged on their debt. So the French came to collect. What is being celebrated in historic actuality is Mexico not paying their debts and trying to get away with it. Nice.. Don't get me wrong. I love a good party as much as the next person, and Mexico is a wonderful country with an interesting culture. But couldn't a different day be picked to celebrate Mexican pride???.