Juneteenth History and Significance

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, marks the day in 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation, effectively freeing enslaved people in the state. Although the proclamation was signed in 1863, it wasn't enforced in Texas until two years later. Juneteenth symbolizes the end of slavery in the U.S. and is celebrated as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, and Emancipation Day. Over time, the holiday has gained recognition across the country, with Texas being the first state to make it an official holiday in 1980. By 2019, 47 states and Washington D.C. recognized Juneteenth, and its national recognition is anticipated.

What is the short form of the name Juneteenth?

• June 18

• June 19

• June 21

• June 20

When did US troops arrive in Galveston, Texas to enforce the freedom of enslaved people?

• June 19, 1864

• June 19, 1865

• June 19, 1866

• June 19, 1863

Who issued the Emancipation Proclamation?

• President Johnson

• President Lincoln

• President Washington

• President Grant

What did the Emancipation Proclamation declare?

• All slaves in border states are free

• All slaves in Union states are free

• All slaves in the United States are free

• All slaves in Confederate states are free

Why was the Emancipation Proclamation not immediately effective in Texas?

• Texas was not part of the Confederacy

• Texas had already freed its slaves

• Texas had no major battles

• Texas was under Union control

What was read by Union troops in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865?

• The Gettysburg Address

• The Bill of Rights

• General Orders Number 3

• The Declaration of Independence

What amendment formally abolished slavery in America?

• 15th Amendment

• 14th Amendment

• 13th Amendment

• 12th Amendment

Which state was the first to make Juneteenth an official state holiday?

• Texas

• California

• Florida

• New York

By 2019, how many states and Washington D.C. recognized Juneteenth?

• 47

• 48

• 49

• 50

What are some other names for Juneteenth?

• Freedom Day

• Jubilee Day

• All of the above

• Liberation Day