Which amendment abolished slavery in the United States?

The 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution is the amendment that abolished slavery. Ratified in 1865, it states that neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime, shall exist within the United States or any place subject to their jurisdiction. This landmark amendment marked a significant turning point in American history by legally freeing millions of enslaved individuals and making it unconstitutional to own slaves.

The other amendments listed pertain to different rights and protections. The 12th Amendment focuses on the electoral process for the President and Vice President, the 14th Amendment addresses citizenship and equal protection under the law, and the 15th Amendment prohibits the denial of voting rights based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude. Hence, while all are vital in shaping civil rights and liberties in the U.S., it is the 13th Amendment that directly pertains to the abolition of slavery.