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  • Writer's pictureJamiese Hancy
    • Jun 19
    • 8 min read

🤎 The Fascinating Origin and History of Juneteenth

The Roots of Juneteenth

Painting shows an enslaved family placed on an auction block with a sign saying "Negroes for Sale."

😭 "Negroes for Sale" – Slave Auction in Virginia [1]


The origin of Juneteenth, a day of profound significance, traces back to June 19, 1865. It was on that day that Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, bringing with him the momentous news that the Civil War had ended and that all enslaved people in America were now free, as declared by President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. The last remaining enslaved African-Americans were finally liberated!


This historic event occurred more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, highlighting the delays and struggles Civil-War-era African-Americans had to overcome to finally gain their freedom. The moment is commemorated annually as Juneteenth, a term derived, of course, by combining "June" and "nineteenth," and has evolved into a powerful symbol of liberation, resilience, and America's continuing journey toward racial equality.


By exploring the origins and historical context of Juneteenth, we gain valuable insights into the enduring spirit of a people who fought for their rightful freedom and the broader narrative of American history.


The Historical Context of Juneteenth

Sketch shows a packing chart of how Africans were packed into the 19th century Vigilante slave ship.

😭 19th Century Vigilante Slave Ship Packing Chart [2]


The historical context of Juneteenth is rooted in the grim reality of the institution of slavery in America, an institution that forcibly brought millions of Africans to American shores and subjugated them to inhumane conditions for centuries.


By the mid-19th century, the United States was sharply divided over the issue of slavery, leading to the eruption of the Civil War in 1861. The Confederate southern states, which relied heavily upon slave labor, fought to preserve their way of life against the northern states, who were determined to end slavery.


In the midst of this brutal conflict, on January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring freedom for enslaved people in the Confederate states. However, due to ongoing warfare and the slow spread of information, many enslaved individuals remained unaware of their emancipation.


This delay persisted until Union forces made significant advances into Confederate territory, culminating in General Gordon Granger's announcement in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865.


This pivotal moment not only marked the end of slavery in Texas, but also symbolized a new beginning for the nation, which was striving to rebuild and redefine itself in the aftermath of civil war and slavery.


The Emancipation Proclamation

Mural depicts Abraham Lincoln with Emancipation Proclamation surrounded by famous African-Americans.

🎩 Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation [3]


On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, a landmark executive order that declared freedom for all enslaved people in Confederate-held territory. This bold proclamation shifted the purpose of the Civil War, framing it as a fight not only to preserve the Union, but also to abolish slavery.


However, the immediate impact of the Emancipation Proclamation was limited; it couldn't be enforced in areas still under Confederate control. Nevertheless, the issuance of this proclamation was a crucial step toward ending slavery, as it allowed African-Americans to join the Union Army, bolstering its forces with approximately 200,000 Black soldiers and sailors.


Furthermore, the Emancipation Proclamation set a moral precedent and laid the foundation for the eventual passage of the 13th Amendment, which would completely abolish slavery nationwide.


The Announcement in Texas

Galveston Daily Newspaper Article on General Gordon Granger's Emancipation Proclamation Announcement

📢 Gen. Gordon Granger's Juneteenth Announcement [4]


The announcement in Texas stands as the cornerstone of Juneteenth's significance. General Granger's issuance of General Order No. 3 publicly proclaimed: "The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free."


This announcement directly impacted approximately 250,000 enslaved African-Americans in Texas, who had remained in bondage long after their legal emancipation due to the slow dissemination of information and the resistance of enslavers. The news was met with a mixture of astonishment, joy, and relief among the newly freed individuals, while slaveholders faced the abrupt end of an era.


The significance of this day extends beyond the immediate freedom it brought; it marked the beginning of a new chapter for African-Americans, who began to forge their paths as free citizens.


The Early History of Juneteenth

The year “1865,” in red, is overlaid with the orange and green word “freedom” on a blue background.

😀 June 19th, 1865 – Freedom for All Americans [5]


Early celebrations of Juneteenth, beginning in 1866, were marked by an overwhelming sense of joy, community, and reflection among newly freed African-Americans. The first Juneteenth events were spontaneous gatherings where people rejoiced in their newfound freedom, often held in rural areas or near rivers where they could celebrate without interference.


These early celebrations featured activities such as prayer meetings, singing spirituals, barbecues, and feasting on traditional foods. Participants dressed in their finest clothing – often discarded by former owners – to symbolize their emancipation and newfound dignity.


Emphasis was also placed on education and self-improvement, with leaders delivering speeches about the importance of literacy and political participation.


Despite facing numerous obstacles, including laws that restricted their assembly and ongoing racial discrimination, African-Americans persevered in commemorating Juneteenth annually. These early celebrations were not only acts of remembrance but also declarations of their resilience and enduring hope for a future of equality and justice.


Juneteenth in the 20th Century

Image displays the phrase "Freedom Day, Juneteenth," bookended by raised black fists.

⛓️ June 19th 1865 – The chains are finally broken! [6]


Juneteenth in the 20th century experienced periods of both decline and resurgence, reflecting the broader struggles and triumphs of African-American communities.


During the early 1900s, as the Great Migration saw many African-Americans moving from the rural South to urban areas across the country, the nature of Juneteenth celebrations began to change. Urbanization and the pressing need for economic survival often meant less time for public celebrations, and the observance of Juneteenth declined in many areas.


However, the civil rights movements of the 1950s and 1960s brought a renewed focus on African-American history and cultural pride, revitalizing Juneteenth as a symbol of freedom and resistance. Civil rights activists used Juneteenth to highlight the ongoing struggles against segregation and inequality, linking the historical significance of emancipation to contemporary fights for justice.


By the late 20th century, the momentum grew for official recognition, with Texas becoming the first state to establish Juneteenth as a state holiday in 1980. This period also saw the emergence of larger, more organized celebrations featuring parades, festivals, and educational events, reflecting a broader acknowledgment of Juneteenth's importance in the American narrative.


Modern-Day Juneteenth

Image displays the phrase “celebrate freedom” above outstretched hands reaching up toward the sky.

😀 June 19th, 1865 – The celebration continues! [7]


Modern-day Juneteenth celebrations continue to evolve, serving as both a commemoration of the past and a call to action for the future.


In recent years, Juneteenth has experienced a resurgence in popularity and significance, fueled by a growing awareness of racial injustices and a renewed commitment to confronting systemic racism.


Across the United States, our neighborhoods come together on June 19th to honor the legacy of emancipation through a variety of activities, including parades, festivals, picnics, educational workshops, and historical reenactments. These activities not only highlight the cultural richness and resilience of the African-American community but also provide opportunities for dialogue, reflection, and collective healing.


Additionally, the official recognition of Juneteenth as a federal holiday in 2021 marked a significant milestone in acknowledging the importance of this day in American history. As Juneteenth continues to gain momentum, it serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice, inspiring individuals and communities to work toward a more inclusive and equitable future for all.


The Importance of Juneteenth Today

Illustration shows a group of seven Africans packed like sardines into a 19th century slave ship.

😭 Slaves Packed Below and On Deck of a Slave Ship [8]


The importance of Juneteenth today cannot be overstated, as it serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice in America. In a time when systemic racism and inequality continue to impact communities of color, Juneteenth provides an opportunity for reflection, education, and action.


By commemorating the end of slavery and celebrating the resilience and strength of African-Americans, Juneteenth fosters a deeper understanding of the complexities of American history and the enduring legacy of oppression.


Moreover, Juneteenth serves as a unifying force, bringing people of all backgrounds together to acknowledge the injustices of the past and commit to building a more inclusive and equitable society for future generations.


As Juneteenth gains wider recognition and celebration, its importance as a day of remembrance, reflection, and activism only continues to grow, reinforcing its significance in the ongoing fight for freedom and equality.


Conclusion: Celebrating the Spirit of Juneteenth

Illustration shows a group of Africans standing on an auction block surrounded by intent bidders.

😭 Slave Auction in Charleston, South Carolina [9]


The historical significance and evolution of Juneteenth encapsulates a journey of resilience, resistance, and hope for freedom. Originating from the announcement of emancipation in Texas on June 19, 1865, Juneteenth has evolved into a nationally recognized day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.


From its early celebrations characterized by spontaneous gatherings of newly-freed African-Americans to its resurgence in the 20th century as a symbol of civil rights and cultural pride, Juneteenth has endured as a testament to the ongoing struggle for racial equality. Its official recognition as a federal holiday in 2021 underscores its profound importance in American history and its role in fostering dialogue, reflection, and activism against systemic racism.


In today's world, where systemic racism continues to plague our society, Juneteenth provides a crucial opportunity for education, reflection, and action. As we honor Juneteenth's historical significance and celebrate its evolution, we also acknowledge the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom and renew our commitment to creating a more just and equitable society for all.


As we reflect upon the importance of Juneteenth in contemporary society, it becomes evident that this day holds profound significance beyond its historical roots. Juneteenth serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination of African-Americans in the face of oppression, and it underscores the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality.


Juneteenth reminds us that the fight for freedom and justice is far from over and encourages us to stand together in solidarity as we strive to build a society where every individual is valued and respected. As we celebrate Juneteenth each year, let us recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of dismantling systemic oppression and fostering a world where the principles of freedom, equality, and justice ring true for all.


As we conclude our exploration of Juneteenth, let's all of us join in the celebration and commemoration of this significant day. Participate in Juneteenth events in your community, whether it's attending a parade, joining a festival, or engaging in educational workshops.


Take the time to learn more about the history of Juneteenth and its profound impact on American society. Share this knowledge with others, whether it's through conversations with friends and family, social media posts, or community outreach initiatives.


By actively participating in Juneteenth celebrations and educating others about its history, we not only honor the struggles and achievements of those who came before us and fought for freedom, but we also contribute to America's ongoing journey toward a more just and equitable society. Let's embrace Juneteenth as a time for reflection, remembrance, and action, and work together to ensure that its significance is recognized and celebrated for generations to come. ☮️ Peace... Jamiese


Young African-Americans are wearing “America Strong” and “Unapologetically Black” hoodies.

👕 Stylish Apparel for a Juneteenth Celebration [10]


📚 Text Sources:


Four young people in colorful t-shirts are posing for the camera at a Juneteenth backyard barbecue.

🍹 Juneteenth Backyard Barbecue Party Celebration [11]


A close-up of a Barack Obama phone case is shown in front of an elephant grazing on a savanna.

🐘 Add your voice to the Juneteenth celebration! [12]


📷 Image Sources:


1. https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47db-c062-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99 by Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture; License: Public Domain per Source Website. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy. https://openclipart.org/detail/319101/black-lives-matter by liftarn; License: https://openclipart.org/share. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy.


2. https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47dc-4d67-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99 by Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture; License: Copyright Status Unknown per Source Website. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy.


3. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Emancipation_Proclamation,_September_22,_1862_(1919),_by_E.G._Renesch.png by E.G. Renesch; License: Public Domain per Source Website. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy.


4. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:General_Gordon_Granger,_The_Galveston_Daily_News_(June_21,_1865).jpg by Galveston Daily News; License: Public Domain per Source Website. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy.






9. https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47dc-492f-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99 by Eyre Crowe (1824-1910); License: Public Domain per Source Website. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy.



11. https://placeit.net/c/mockups/stages/t-shirt-mockup-of-a-group-of-friends-having-a-barbecue-party-29699 by Placeit; License: https://placeit.net/. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy. https://placeit.net/c/design-templates/stages/sports-t-shirt-maker-with-the-illustration-of-an-elephant-208c-el1 by Placeit; License: https://placeit.net/. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Flag-map_of_Cameroon.svg by Darwinek; License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy. https://placeit.net/c/design-templates/stages/t-shirt-design-creator-with-an-illustration-of-an-extraterrestrial-queen-3808b by Placeit; License: https://placeit.net/. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy. https://pixabay.com/vectors/dog-african-wild-predator-savannah-7494995/ by mostafaelturkey97; License: https://pixabay.com/service/terms/. Enhanced by Jamiese Hancy.


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