On May 5, 1862, a poorly equipped Mexican army of about 4,500 soldiers defeated a much larger and better-armed French force near the city of Puebla. France had one of the most powerful militaries in the world at the time. Its soldiers were well-trained, well-supplied, and had not lost a major battle in fifty years. So how did Mexico win? The answer was geography and leadership. General Ignacio Zaragoza positioned his troops on hilltops overlooking Puebla. He used the hilly terrain to his advantage. The French had to attack uphill, through muddy fields, against defenders who knew every path. The French cavalry charged three times and was pushed back each time. The battle lasted from morning until evening. By nightfall, the French retreated with heavy losses. The victory at Puebla did not end the war. France eventually sent more soldiers and took control of Mexico City in 1863. But the Battle of Puebla became a powerful symbol of Mexican pride and resistance. Today, Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in Mexico and across the United States with music, food, and parades.