Which amendment abolished slavery in the United States?

The 13th Amendment is the amendment that abolished slavery in the United States. Ratified in December 1865, this amendment formally abolished involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime, marking a significant turning point in American history. It was a direct response to the Civil War and aimed to ensure that the institution of slavery would no longer exist in the United States.

While the other amendments listed each serve important roles in U.S. law, they do not pertain to the issue of slavery. The 11th Amendment addresses cases against states, the 15th Amendment guarantees voting rights regardless of race, and the 17th Amendment established the direct election of U.S. Senators. Understanding the significance of the 13th Amendment helps to contextualize the broader fight for civil rights that continued after its ratification, as it laid the groundwork for future amendments and laws aimed at ensuring equality and justice for all citizens.