In the 1860s, the United States was divided. Some southern states wanted to leave the country. In 1861, Texas decided to secede, or leave the United States.
Texas joined the Confederacy, the group of southern states that broke away. The Civil War began soon after. This war was fought between the Union, or the North, and the Confederacy, or the South.
Texans Go to War
After Texas joined the South, many men chose to enlist in the army. They joined Confederate forces and left home to fight. Texas sent thousands of soldiers to help the South.
Not everyone fought on the battlefield. Many people helped the war effort at home. Women sewed uniforms, made flags, and cared for farms and families while soldiers were away.
Texas was far from many major battles. Even so, the war changed life in Texas. People had fewer goods, and many families worried about loved ones serving in the army.
Texas as a Place of Refuge
As the war went on, some people fled danger in other southern states. These people were called refugees because they left home to escape fighting. Many refugees came to Texas because it seemed safer than places closer to the battles.
Texas became crowded in some areas. More people needed food, homes, and supplies. The war affected both soldiers and families trying to live through hard times.
The End of the War
By 1865, the Confederacy was losing the war. The Civil War ended that year. But freedom did not reach everyone in Texas right away.
On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston. They announced that enslaved people in Texas were free. This day became known as Juneteenth.
[INSERT LESSON IMAGE: Union troops arriving in Galveston to announce freedom on June 19, 1865]
Juneteenth is a very important part of Texas history. It marks the day freedom was announced for enslaved people in Texas. Today, people still celebrate Juneteenth to remember freedom and the end of slavery.
Why This History Matters
The Civil War brought big changes to Texas. Texas left the United States, joined the Confederacy, and sent soldiers to fight. Families at home worked hard to support the war effort and deal with many struggles.
The war also led to an important new beginning. Juneteenth reminds us that freedom must be known and protected. It is one of the most important dates in Texas history.