Overview
This lecture explains the origins, meaning, and historical significance of Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating the effective end of slavery in the United States.
Origins of Juneteenth
- Juneteenth is short for "June Nineteenth," marking the day federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, in 1865 to enforce the end of slavery.
- This event occurred more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed in 1863.
- Juneteenth is considered the longest-running African American holiday.
The Emancipation Proclamation
- President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, stating all enslaved people in rebelling Confederate states were free.
- The proclamation did not apply to border states or Confederate areas already under Union control.
- Enslaved people in these areas gained freedom only as Union troops advanced.
Slavery in Texas and Aftermath
- Texas saw little fighting and had few Union troops, so slavery persisted longer there.
- Many enslavers relocated to Texas, viewing it as safe for maintaining slavery.
- On June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger's arrival enforced emancipation for 250,000 enslaved Texans.
- Some enslavers delayed announcing freedom, but eventually, celebrations by freed people began.
Spread and Recognition of Juneteenth
- The first "Jubilee Day" was celebrated in Texas on June 19, 1866.
- Traditions included music, barbecues, prayer, and community gatherings.
- As Black Texans migrated, Juneteenth celebrations spread across the U.S.
- Texas made Juneteenth a state holiday in 1979; it became a federal holiday on June 17, 2021.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Juneteenth — Holiday on June 19 commemorating the enforcement of emancipation in Texas in 1865.
- Emancipation Proclamation — Presidential decree by Abraham Lincoln freeing slaves in Confederate states, effective January 1, 1863.
- 13th Amendment — Constitutional amendment adopted in December 1865 that formally abolished slavery in the United States.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review information on the Emancipation Proclamation and 13th Amendment for further understanding.
- Research how Juneteenth is celebrated in different regions of the U.S.