What is Juneteenth?

Worksheet Description

This educational worksheet is designed to inform students about Juneteenth, a significant day in American history commemorated on June 19th. The document serves as a resource to explain the origins, significance, and ways of celebrating this day, which marks the end of slavery in the United States and is a symbol of freedom and progress.

The first section of the worksheet provides a concise history of Juneteenth, beginning with the era of slavery, when African Americans were forcibly brought to work in the United States without pay. It outlines the pivotal moment in 1862 when President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that all enslaved people should be free. However, the news of freedom spread slowly, and it wasn’t until June 19th, 1865, that General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of the Civil War and enforce the emancipation of all slaves. The combination of “June” and “nineteenth” led to the title “Juneteenth.”

The second paragraph explains the various ways Juneteenth is celebrated, which includes community events such as parades, music, dance performances, and picnics. These festivities serve as an opportunity to honor African American history, achievements, and the journey towards equality. Educational institutions also play a role by teaching about the history of slavery, the Civil War, and the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is thus presented as a time for learning, reflection, and rejoicing in the strides made towards a more equitable society. It is a day of both joy and reflection, encouraging the remembrance of a pivotal moment in American history and the ongoing pursuit of freedom and progress.