Arizona Civics Practice Test

The 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution is the key amendment that abolished slavery. Ratified in 1865, this amendment declares 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 was a significant turning point in American history, as it officially ended the legal institution of slavery that had been prevalent in many states. The passage of the 13th Amendment marked a critical victory for the abolitionist movement and fundamentally shifted the legal and moral fabric of the country, ensuring freedom for millions of individuals who had been enslaved.

The other amendments mentioned in the options address different aspects of rights. The 14th Amendment guarantees citizenship and equal protection under the law, the 15th Amendment focuses on voting rights regardless of race, and the 19th Amendment grants women the right to vote. Each plays a vital role in expanding civil rights but does not pertain to the abolition of slavery, which is solely the focus of the 13th Amendment.