Which amendment abolished slavery in the United States?

The 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution specifically abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime. Ratified in December 1865, this amendment marked a significant turning point in American history, formally ending the legal practice of slavery that had existed since the colonial period and was foundational to the institution of the United States.

It is important to understand the context of the other amendments. The 10th Amendment focuses on states' rights and powers not delegated to the federal government, while the 14th Amendment addresses citizenship rights and equal protection under the law, particularly for former slaves, and the 15th Amendment prohibits denying the right to vote based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude. Each of these amendments plays a crucial role in the broader civil rights framework but does not specifically address the abolition of slavery itself as the 13th Amendment does.