Timeline of Emancipation
Timeline of Emancipation
1865
Union General Gordon Granger and Union Army arrive in Galveston, TX
Union General Gord0n Granger and Union Army arrive in Galveston, Texas. Their presence and the reading of the Emancipation Proclamation signal the end of slavery in the state, and the nation.
The U.S. Congress ratifies the 13th Amendment
The U.S. Congress ratifies the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, outlawing slavery except for the punishment of crimes.
1866
Celebrations in Tallahassee are held
Celebrations in Tallahassee are held and some other parts of the state are held annually thereafter
1873
Slavery is abolished in Puerto Rico
1886
Slavery is abolished in Cuba
1888
Slavery ends in Brazil
1997
Emancipation Day, May 20th, is a statewide celebration
Emancipation Day, May 20th, as a statewide celebration is inaugurated in Tallahassee sponsored by the Florida Department of State, Museum of Florida History and the John Gilmore Riley Museum. This and other commemorations and celebrations continue in parts of Florida.
2020
Leon County officially recognizes Florida Emancipation Day
Leon County becomes the first governmental entity to officially recognize Florida Emancipation Day of May 20th as a county holiday.