Gordon Granger

Nationality:

Biography: A graduate of West Point military academy, Granger fought in the Mexican War in 1847. He was serving on the frontier when the Civil War broke out and joining the Union side he was rapidly promoted, becoming brigadier general in 1862. In 1863 his counterattack saved William S. Rosecrans's force from disaster at Chickamauga, Tennessee.

Granger was made commander of the Department of Texas in June 1865 and on his arrival in Galveston June 19 he declared the end of slavery, forming the basis for "Juneteenth" celebrations today.

Born: November 6, 1822
Birthplace: Joy, Wayne County, New York, USA
Star Sign: Scorpio

Died: January 10, 1876 (aged 53)

Articles and Photos

Juneteenth
The declaration issued in Texas informing citizens that all slaves were free as of June 19, 1865
June 19, 1865

Historical Events

1863-09-19 Battle of Chickamauga, GA (near Chattanooga) begins; Union forces retreat after a couple days of fighting
1863-09-20 US Civil War Battle of Chickamauga, near Chattanooga, Tennessee ends with a Union withdrawal
1865-06-19 Union General Gordon Granger declares slaves are free in Texas, now the date the end of slavery is celebrated across the US as Juneteenth

Gordon Granger

Articles and Photos

Juneteenth

Historical Events

Famous Generals

Famous Union Generals