Which amendment abolished slavery in the United States?

The 13th Amendment is the correct choice because it explicitly abolished slavery and involuntary servitude in the United States, except as punishment for a crime. Ratified in December 1865, it was a significant outcome of the Civil War and marked a pivotal moment in American history as it legally freed millions of enslaved individuals and set the foundation for subsequent civil rights advancements. This amendment transformed the social and legal landscape of the nation by ensuring that slavery would not exist in any form, which was a crucial step towards equality and justice.

In contrast, the other amendments listed serve different purposes. The 14th Amendment addresses citizenship rights and equal protection under the law, while the 15th Amendment prohibits the federal and state governments from denying a citizen the right to vote based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude. The 19th Amendment, on the other hand, grants women the right to vote. Each of these amendments plays a role in expanding civil rights, but it is the 13th Amendment that specifically targets the institution of slavery itself.