The other day Fritz asked me why there are so many Mexican flags flying on top of cars lately.
I explained to him that the Mexican Independence Day is coming up over the weekend.
“But I thought that was what Cinco de Mayo was supposed to be dad?”
I then explained to him that the one in May is the victory over France and the one in September is the victory for independence over Spain.
Now here is where I go deep Cliff Clavin on all of you Chalkheads.
In the middle of the 1800’s when many Irish migrated to America they arrived to extreme racism for being Catholics. The Irish men would get off of the boat and get forced into the U.S. Military immediately.
The Irish soldiers were treated poorly during the Mexican-American War, so they deserted. Many of them joined the Mexican Army where they were treated favorably.
The Mexicans were mostly Catholic and that gave the Irish an even stronger bond with Mexico. The Irish soldiers were named The San Patricios or The Saint Patrick Battalion.
At one point there were seven hundred Irish fighting in the Mexican Army. The Saint Patrick Battalion was responsible for several victories during the war. The San Patricios were celebrated in Mexico for their bravery and commitment. Something they would have never received fighting for the United States.
Eventually many of them were caught. The majority of them were hung and several of the leaders convicted for desertion. The funny thing is most of the Irish soldiers never even had a chance to become citizens before they were forced to enlist.
Like many ugly stories in American history, the legends of the Saint Patrick Battalion has been forgotten. Next March and next May when you’re celebrating your Irish and Mexican heritage…. Bring up the story of when the Irish and Mexicans fought side by side against America.
While we are on the subject of hatred in America, we might as well give a shout out to our Jewish brothers and sisters. Tonight is the beginning of Rosh Hashanah. May your love of family and faith in God make your bonds stronger.
L’chiam!
The week is drawing to a close and September is halfway over. I will be celebrating my Mexican heritage with a burrito from El Famous. I will be celebrating my Jewish heritage with a medley from “Fiddler on the Roof.”
Never forget to… “Pon la sonrisa en el sol” or “להעלות את החיוך על השמש.”
