History of Juneteenth: From Emancipation to Today
Explore how Juneteenth began in 1865, spread nationwide, and became a federal holiday.
Juneteenth traces its roots to June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and General Order No. 3 was read—enforcing emancipation and marking a turning point in U.S. history.
1865 Events in Galveston, Texas
Following the end of the Civil War, Union Major General Gordon Granger announced that all enslaved people in Texas were free, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
Spread of Celebrations
Freed communities established annual gatherings, often at churches, public spaces, and parks. Traditions grew to include parades, educational forums, and communal meals.
20th-Century Recognition
Juneteenth survived through grassroots dedication, with local traditions sustained by families and civic groups across decades—especially in Texas.
Modern Holiday Adoption
Public awareness expanded nationwide, culminating in U.S. federal recognition in 2021 and broader state-level observance.
FAQ
- How did Juneteenth start? It began with Union enforcement of emancipation in Texas on June 19, 1865.
- Why is Juneteenth important? It represents freedom, resilience, and the acknowledgment of African American history.
- What happened on Juneteenth? The announcement of emancipation in Texas and the effective end of slavery there.