Which amendment abolished slavery in the United States?

• A. The 14th Amendment
• B. The 15th Amendment
• C. The 13th Amendment
• D. The 19th Amendment

Answer: (C)

The 13th Amendment abolished slavery in the United States, making it a crucial piece of legislation in American history. Ratified in December 1865, this amendment states that "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction." This was a landmark change that legally ended the practice of slavery, which had been a significant moral and social issue in the nation, particularly during the Civil War era.

In contrast, the 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, addressed citizenship rights and equal protection under the law, while the 15th Amendment, ratified in 1870, granted African American men the right to vote. The 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, granted women the right to vote. While all these amendments were important in promoting civil rights and freedoms, none specifically targeted the abolition of slavery like the 13th Amendment.