What is the significance of Juneteenth and why is it important to American history?

Juneteenth, or “Freedom Day” is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. This holiday is considered the “longest running African-American holiday” and has been called “America’s second Independence Day.” It was on June 19, 1865 that Union soldiers, led by Maj. Gen.

What is Juneteenth significance?

A combination of the words “June” and “19th” — Juneteenth commemorates the announcement of emancipation of enslaved people in Texas on June 19, 1865, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln.

Why is it called Juneteenth instead of Emancipation Day?

Juneteenth honors the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. The name “Juneteenth” is a blend of two words: “June” and “nineteenth.” It’s believed to be the oldest African-American holiday, with annual celebrations on June 19th in different parts of the country dating back to 1866.

When did Juneteenth become a thing?

June 19, 1865
Freedom finally came on June 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. The army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved black people in the state, were free by executive decree. This day came to be known as “Juneteenth,” by the newly freed people in Texas.

What is Juneteenth and slavery?

Juneteenth is a holiday marking slaves in Texas learning in 1865 that they had been freed by President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. The executive order outlawed slavery in Confederate states beginning Jan. “It is the completion of the celebration of freedom in America.”

Is Juneteenth the end of slavery?

While June 19, 1865, was not actually the ‘end of slavery’ even in Texas (like the Emancipation Proclamation, itself, General Gordon’s military order had to be acted upon) and although it has competed with other dates for emancipation’s celebration, ordinary African Americans created, preserved, and spread a shared …

Is it OK to wish someone a Happy Juneteenth?

Just say ‘Happy Juneteenth! ‘ The easiest way to wish someone a Happy Juneteenth is by messaging them and wishing them a fulfilled day. Similar to Black History Month, and other important anniversaries to Black Americans, it is important to acknowledge it as an American holiday, even if you do not celebrate it.

Was Juneteenth the end of slavery?

Although the Emancipation Proclamation declared an end to slavery in the Confederate States, it did not end slavery in states that remained in the Union….