How Does a Tradition Become a Holiday?
Mystery
Historians are observant. In this lesson, students will explore the history of Juneteenth and how it developed organically and has recently been adopted as a…
Overview
Historians are observant. In this lesson, students will explore the history of Juneteenth and how it developed organically and has recently been adopted as a civic holiday in the majority of U.S. states. They will use primary sources to discover how African Americans use this holiday to demonstrate resistance to the history of enslavement while also celebrating the joys of freedom, community, and traditions.
Grade Levels
- K-5
Learning Objectives
- Describe why people celebrate Juneteenth
- Identify ways that Juneteenth celebrations show resistance to slavery and joyous celebration
- Discuss and support reasons to explain: “How does a tradition become a holiday?”