French ruler Napoleon III sympathized with and considered aiding the rebelling Southern states during the American Civil War. He also had designs to take control of Mexico. Had French forces not been fended off by a smaller Mexican force during the Battle of Puebla in 1862, Napoleon might have been able to supply substantial material aid to the Confederacy, perhaps helping its chances in the war. The holiday Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican victory at the Battle of Puebla.