Juneteenth:
The Promise of Freedom
By Dr. Charles A. Taylor
From Africa’s ancient kingdoms to America’s struggle for equality – the complete story of how Juneteenth became our newest national holiday.
A Landmark Work That Made History
When Dr. Charles Taylor wrote the original Juneteenth book, it became the official resource used by the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation in their successful campaign to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. Now, this expanded edition delves even deeper into our shared history.
“Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom has been an inspiring and invaluable resource in our campaign to establish Juneteenth as a National Holiday. Dr. Taylor’s book deserves a place in every school and library in the country.”
Rev. Ronald “Doc” V. Myers Sr., M.D.
Founder and Past President of the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation
Purchase a digital
copy of the book
“Insightful, expansive, profound! Must read for everyone! I highly recommend this book for librarians. If you’re interested in a comprehensive history of Juneteenth and Black history, you won’t find a better manuscript. Make sure that Juneteenth: The Promise of Freedom is available in your library collection!-
Paula J. Rucinski, Librarian
A number of excellent books have emerged from the history of Juneteenth, but this stands out as one of the best. Dr. Taylor presents a factual picture of our ancestors’ contributions and struggles, finding clear and concise justice for equality of opportunity. His presentation, suitable for all media, is of incalculable value to the nation. Readers will be richer for the knowledge it imparts, fostering tolerance and understanding that may ease views on DEI.
Marilyn M. Irving, Professor Emerita, PhD, Howard University, Washington, DC
As a HISTORY major, after reading your book,
I see I barely scratched the surface learning about the African American experience in classes I have taken. Beyond the factual presentation, you were brilliant in portraying history from a perspective of “perseverance“ rather than an “oppressive “ point of view! Shatters all my previous understanding of the Black Experience in America. I have known you since childhood, and I have NEVER known you NOT to be advancing the education of us all about the struggle for Equality, Justice, and Freedom. Your book exemplifies that in spades!
Eddie Connor, lifelong Student of History
Juneteenth: The Promise of Freedom takes readers on an epic journey through Black history, beginning not with slavery, but with Africa’s golden age. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Dr. Taylor challenges traditional narratives by revealing how Africa’s great civilizations were systematically destroyed, leading to the transatlantic slave trade.
Through 22 comprehensive chapters, Dr. Taylor connects historical events to contemporary challenges, demonstrating why Juneteenth remains relevant today. This expanded edition builds on Dr. Taylor’s original work, which became instrumental in the campaign to make Juneteenth a federal holiday.
Juneteenth: The Promise of Freedom traces the complex path from ancient Africa to June 19, 1865, when Union Major General Gordon Granger announced the end of slavery in Galveston, Texas – more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
This book serves as both a celebration of resilience and a call to action, showing how the promise of freedom remains an ongoing journey for many Americans. This collector’s edition is an essential resource for anyone seeking to understand the full scope of American history and the continuing journey toward true equality and justice.
- What's Inside the Juneteenth:
Promise of Freedom book:
-
A sweeping 22-chapter journey tracing the roots of Juneteenth from ancient African civilizations to
present-day America. -
Bridging the past and present, uncovering how Africa’s ancient history influences the struggles and triumphs
shaping America today. -
Deeply researched insights revealing Juneteenth’s lasting impact and its undeniable connection to modern social
justice movements. - Powerful historical photographs and illustrations bringing to life the people and pivotal moments that shaped our history.
- An expanded and enriched edition of the book that played a key role in making Juneteenth a national holiday.
Why This Book Matters Now
- Profoundly timely in today’s fight for justice. It holds up a mirror to history that explains our present turmoil and inspires hope and action toward a more just tomorrow.
- Reframing history beyond the Eurocentric lens. This book offers a fresh, inclusive retelling of history that gives voice to those long silenced.
- Rigorous research that shatters old myths. Grounded in impeccable scholarship, it sets the record straight on African and African American history.
- The book’s engaging storytelling makes complex history feel personal and relevant, showing that Juneteenth’s legacy lives on in today’s quest for justice.
- Juneteenth is More Than a Holiday—It is American History – This book symbolizes Black perseverance and the ongoing fight for justice that remains relevant today.
About the Author
Dr. Charles A. Taylor stands at the forefront of America’s journey toward understanding and celebrating Juneteenth. His groundbreaking work became instrumental in helping to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. He has:
- Been considered an expert on Black History as one of the foremost voices on Juneteenth and its enduring relevance.
- Authored over a dozen influential books, including Lakeside University Cover Up (his highly acclaimed novel) that helps students understand issues of diversity and leadership.
- Spoken on the topic of Juneteenth and African American history at prestigious institutions, including Princeton and MIT, and in communities nationwide.
- Created award-winning documentaries like Decade of Discontent and Leaders of Madison's Black Renaissance.
- Retired as a professor and dean. He is currently the founder and President of Roar Enterprises, a consulting firm that fosters accurate Black history and creative race relation solutions through films, books, and speeches.
Dr. Taylor and Ms. Opal Lee, grandmother of Juneteenth.
- Juneteenth:
The Promise of Freedom: a Book Review by Lloyd Williams Publisher, Urban Voices, a Regional Newspaper serving Southern Missouri and Illinois.
Dr. Charles Taylor’s Juneteenth: The Promise of Freedom is an illuminating and compelling narrative that situates Juneteenth within the broader context of Black history, stretching from Africa, the cradle of civilization, through the transatlantic slave trade, the institution of slavery in America, and finally to the long struggle for emancipation. More than just a recounting of events, the book is a tribute to the resilience, strength, and indomitable spirit of Black people who have continuously fought for their right to freedom and dignity. Taylor begins his historical journey in Africa, highlighting the continent’s rich civilizations, advanced societies, and the immense contributions African people made to world history long before the onset of European colonization and the transatlantic slave trade.
This foundation is essential in framing the later chapters of oppression, as it underscores what was forcibly taken from millions of Africans—both in terms of land and human potential. Taylor does not shy away from the horrors of bondage, providing a sobering account of the systemic dehumanization and exploitation that enslaved people endured. Yet, throughout, he centers Black resistance—highlighting revolts, acts of defiance, and the ways in which enslaved people preserved their culture, heritage, and hope for freedom. Taylor meticulously charts the path to emancipation, illustrating the role of abolitionists, the Civil War, and the eventual signing of the Emancipation proclamation.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to connect Juneteenth with the larger African American fight for civil rights and social justice.
Taylor traces the legacy of Juneteenth from Reconstruction to the Civil Rights Movement and into the present, culminating in its designation as a federal holiday in 2021. He argues convincingly that Juneteenth is not merely a Black celebration but an American one—a testament to the nation’s ability to confront its past and celebrate progress while acknowledging the work that remains. In an era where books on Black history are increasingly being challenged or banned, Juneteenth: The Promise of Freedom is more important than ever. Taylor’s work ensures that the history of Black resilience and liberation remains accessible, offering a vital resource for those seeking to understand the full breadth of American history. Dr. Taylor’s storytelling is both scholarly and deeply personal, making Juneteenth: The Promise of Freedom accessible to a broad audience.
His prose is engaging, and his analysis is rooted in historical rigor, ensuring that readers not only learn the facts but also understand their significance.
In sum, Juneteenth: The Promise of Freedom is a powerful, necessary book that reaffirms the importance of Juneteenth as a pivotal moment in Black and American history. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the historical foundations of Black resilience and the ongoing journey toward justice and equality. Taylor’s work is a celebration of triumph over adversity and a reminder that freedom, though delayed, remains an unyielding promise.
Lloyd Williams
Publisher Urban Voices
Meet Mary Flor Tongson (Nickname-Sunday), my Juneteenth Book’s interior designer.
I’ve always believed in giving new artists an opportunity to work on my projects. I couldn’t be more pleased with the design work Sunday did for me. Her interior design of my book is exceptional. Hailing from Calabarzon, Philippines, Sunday is a seasoned graphic designer specializing in book formatting, social media graphics, Amazon A+ content, and video editing. Please consider her for your next project. She has a bright future ahead in design.
Contact her at: Mary Flor Tongson
mfstongson@gmail.com or on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-flor-t-2ab749230/
Meet Monica Cliff, the Juneteenth Book Cover Designer.
She is one of the Midwest’s most dynamic artists. The company she founded, Inventiva Works, is the only art studio in Dane County offering Spanish-language art and theatre classes. Monica is on the cutting edge of using art to explore cultural identity while preserving language and heritage. Cliff was born and raised in Zacatepec, Morelos, Mexico. With over 20 years of experience, Monica has designed sets, costumes, puppets, and props for leading art organizations, including Madison Opera, Children’s Theater of Madison, Theatre LILA, and the Wisconsin Film Festival. As an award-winning artist and cultural champion, Monica co-founded Art House 360, a Multicultural Art Space dedicated to creating access to arts programs for Dane County, WI’s diverse, multigenerational community. If you’re looking for one of the country’s top-tier artists to design your next project, please consider Monica. She creates stunning murals, paintings, illustrations, designs, and yes-book covers. Visit her website for more information: www.inventivaworks.com
- EXCERPT FROM BOOK
JUNETEENTH:
The Promise Of Freedom
Imagine a Black child excitedly flipping through their history textbook, searching for faces that look like theirs, searching for a story that reflects their heritage. Instead, they find chains, suffering, and loss. They are taught that their history begins with enslavement as if their ancestors had no brilliance, achievements, or power before being taken across the Atlantic. What does that do to a child’s sense of self? How different would their reflection in the mirror feel if, instead, they were taught that they descended from the world’s first architects, the first scientists, the first explorers? Imagine the shift in their posture, the light in their eyes, the pride that replaces doubt. Acknowledging the truth about Africa’s role in human history is not just an academic correction—it is an act of healing. It tells generations of Black children that their worth is not defined by oppression but by an inheritance of brilliance that no amount of erasure can undo. Acknowledging this fact, we ground our historical narrative in empirical truth rather than cultural myths or racist information. It is time we teach history as it was—not as it has been distorted to be. The Juneteeth Book that will forever change what you thought you knew about Black History.
- EXCERPT FROM BOOK
The Unsung Heroes Of The Underground Railroad
The heroes of the Underground Railroad were not just Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, or Levi Coffin. They were the nameless stationmasters who risked imprisonment to shelter a family for one night. They were the mothers who carried their children on their backs across frozen rivers, knowing one misstep meant death. They were the White allies who faced exile from their communities for daring to see Black people as human. They were the Mexican farmers who took up arms to protect Black migrants escaping to their land. These were the real patriots—those who stood against an evil so embedded in America’s foundation that even today, its shadows linger. The Underground Railroad was not just about reaching Canada or Mexico—it was about proving that oppression can be challenged, and that justice will always have its warriors. This is an excerpt from Chapter 15: The Underground Railroad from Juneteenth: A PROMISE OF FREEDOM. I think its message is relevant today. Their legacy demands
that we, too, take a stand.
Download the media kit below for more information about Dr. Taylor and his work.
Dr. Marilyn M. Irving
“The work is a truthful and trustworthy account that forces us to face the harsh realities of history. Dr. Taylor leaves no stone unturned, offering invaluable insights and showing how our ancestors made “a way out of no way.” In a time when DEI is under threat, this book constructs the necessary pieces of our colorful and vibrant history.”
Paula J. Rucinski
“Your book is amazing! It was a journey through the Black experience, and I especially learned more about ancient African history. You did a tremendous amount of research, and I appreciate your carefully citing your sources. Beautifully written! Insightful. Expansive. Profound. Eye-opening. A must read for everyone! I highly recommend this book for librarians. If you’re interested in a comprehensive history about Juneteenth and Black history, you won’t find a better manuscript. Ensure that Juneteenth: The promise of Freedom is available in your library collection!”
Dr. Jessica Wicks-Allen
“Centering the experiences and perspectives of Black people, Dr. Taylor situates Juneteenth within a broader, ongoing struggle for Black freedom while challenging Eurocentric narratives of Black history. This inspiring work honors the countless contributions of African-descended people across history and illuminates why the fight for liberation remains vital today. “