Glossary
1866 Treaties
Agreements negotiated between the U.S. government and Indigenous nations, including the 'Five Civilized Tribes,' after the Civil War. These treaties aimed to end slavery within Indian Territory but often did not grant tribal citizenship to freed African Americans.
Example:
The 1866 Treaties illustrate the complicated post-Civil War landscape, where the abolition of slavery in Indigenous nations did not automatically lead to full integration or citizenship for formerly enslaved people.
Community Joy
The collective happiness and celebration experienced within African American communities, particularly evident in early Juneteenth celebrations through activities like feasting, dancing, and wearing new clothes.
Example:
Despite the hardships, early Juneteenth celebrations were marked by profound community joy, as newly freed people embraced their liberation together.
Emancipation Day
A term used to refer to various dates commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people, including Juneteenth, or specific local celebrations like April 16th in Washington D.C.
Example:
While Juneteenth is widely recognized, many states and cities have their own Emancipation Day celebrations, marking the specific date when freedom arrived in their region.
Emancipation Proclamation
An executive order issued by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863 during the Civil War. It declared enslaved people in Confederate states still in rebellion to be free, serving as a wartime measure.
Example:
The Emancipation Proclamation was a pivotal moment, signaling a shift in the Union's war aims to include the abolition of slavery in rebellious territories.
Federal Holiday
A public holiday recognized by the U.S. government, meaning federal employees are typically given the day off and non-essential federal offices are closed. Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021.
Example:
The designation of Juneteenth as a federal holiday in 2021 elevated its status, ensuring national recognition of this critical moment in American history.
Five Civilized Tribes
A term used by white Americans to refer to the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, and Seminole nations. These nations adopted some European customs, including the practice of slavery.
Example:
The complex history of the Five Civilized Tribes includes their adoption of chattel slavery, which led to unique challenges for African Americans enslaved within their territories.
Freedom Days
A broad term for various historical dates celebrated by African American communities to mark milestones in the fight for emancipation and equality. Juneteenth is one prominent example among many.
Example:
Beyond Juneteenth, communities also observe other Freedom Days like Emancipation Day in Washington D.C., each signifying a unique moment in the journey toward liberation.
General Order No. 3
The order read by Union General Gordon Granger in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, informing enslaved people in Texas that they were free. It notably mentioned 'an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves.'
Example:
General Order No. 3 was the official declaration that brought the news of freedom to the last enslaved people in the Confederacy, laying the groundwork for Juneteenth celebrations.
Jubilee Day
An alternative name for Juneteenth, reflecting the celebratory and joyous nature of the emancipation announcement. It signifies a time of great rejoicing and liberation.
Example:
In some historical accounts, the celebration of freedom in Texas was often referred to as Jubilee Day, emphasizing the profound joy and relief felt by newly freed people.
Juneteenth
A federal holiday celebrated on June 19th, commemorating the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger announced the freedom of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, marking the effective end of slavery in the U.S.
Example:
Many communities across the U.S. celebrate Juneteenth with parades, historical readings, and cultural events to honor the resilience of African Americans and reflect on the ongoing fight for equality.
Racial Equality
The state in which people of all races have equal rights, opportunities, and treatment, free from discrimination or prejudice. General Order No. 3 notably mentioned 'an absolute equality of personal rights' for former masters and slaves.
Example:
The ongoing struggle for racial equality continues to be a central theme in African American history, extending far beyond the legal end of slavery.
Reflection and Commitment
The act of deep thought about past events and a renewed dedication to future goals, particularly in the context of racial justice. Juneteenth serves as a time for both.
Example:
Juneteenth provides a crucial opportunity for reflection and commitment, prompting individuals and communities to consider the past struggles and renew their efforts toward a more equitable future.
Resilience and Determination
The capacity of African Americans to recover quickly from difficulties and to continue striving for freedom and equal rights despite immense challenges. These qualities are celebrated during Juneteenth commemorations.
Example:
The enduring resilience and determination of African Americans, from surviving slavery to fighting for civil rights, is a core message celebrated during Juneteenth.
Thirteenth Amendment
A constitutional amendment ratified in 1865 that permanently abolished slavery and involuntary servitude in the United States, except as punishment for a crime. It freed approximately four million African Americans.
Example:
Unlike the Emancipation Proclamation, the Thirteenth Amendment ensured that slavery was outlawed across the entire nation, marking a permanent legal end to the institution.