What amendment abolished slavery in the United States?

The 13th Amendment, ratified in 1865, is significant because it explicitly abolished slavery throughout the United States. This amendment marked a pivotal moment in American history, effectively ending the legal practice of slavery and involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime. The abolition was a critical step towards equality and civil rights for formerly enslaved individuals and laid the groundwork for further amendments aimed at securing rights for all citizens.

The other amendments listed address different aspects of civil rights and governance. The 12th Amendment deals with the electoral process for the President and Vice President, the 14th Amendment focuses on citizenship rights and equal protection under the laws, and the 15th Amendment prohibits the denial of voting rights based on race. While these amendments are also crucial to the development of civil rights in the United States, none of them address the issue of slavery directly, making the 13th Amendment the correct choice in this context.