13th Amendment 1865: Abolishing Slavery — Reading Comprehension

The 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1865, officially ended legal slavery in the country. Before this amendment, millions of African Americans were enslaved, forced to work without pay, and denied basic rights. The struggle to abolish slavery was long and complex. It involved fierce debates, a devastating civil war, and countless acts of resistance by enslaved people themselves.

The problem of slavery had divided the United States for decades. The Southern states depended on slave labor for their economy, especially on large plantations that grew cotton and tobacco. In contrast, many in the North supported abolition—the movement to end slavery. Abolitionists, like Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman, spoke out against the injustice of slavery and risked their lives to help enslaved people escape through the Underground Railroad. However, many white Southerners believed their way of life and economic success depended on maintaining slavery.

The issue became even more urgent during the Civil War (1861–1865), when the North (Union) and South (Confederacy) fought over states’ rights and the future of slavery. President Abraham Lincoln, at first, wanted mainly to preserve the Union. But as the war continued, he realized that ending slavery was essential for justice and for winning the war. In 1863, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that enslaved people in Confederate states were free. However, this order could not be enforced everywhere, and slavery still existed in some border states loyal to the Union.

After the war, the government faced a difficult question: How could freedom be guaranteed for all? Some leaders worried that slavery could return if not completely outlawed. Others, mainly in the South, resisted any change and wanted to keep their former slaves under control through harsh Black Codes. The 13th Amendment was proposed as the solution. It stated, "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States." This language was clear and direct. It closed legal loopholes and made slavery illegal in every state.

Many lawmakers debated the amendment. Some argued that, "If slavery is not abolished now, it never will be," showing the urgency felt by abolitionists. Others feared economic loss or social changes. Enslaved people themselves voiced their hopes and fears, with some writing to Congress or testifying about their experiences. Despite strong resistance, the amendment passed Congress in January 1865 and was ratified by the states in December of that year.

The consequences of the 13th Amendment were enormous. Formerly enslaved people gained legal freedom, but true equality was still a distant goal. New challenges appeared, such as discrimination, segregation, and the rise of groups that opposed black rights. The amendment did not guarantee land, education, or jobs for freed people. Although it was a major step forward, the struggle for civil rights continued for generations.

The 13th Amendment is a powerful example of how change can come through collective action, protest, and legal reform. It reminds us that history is shaped by conflict, compromise, and the courage to demand justice.

Interesting Fact: The state of Mississippi did not officially ratify the 13th Amendment until 2013, nearly 150 years after it became law.

When was the 13th Amendment ratified?

Who was president during the Civil War?

What law ended slavery in the U.S.?

Why did some Southerners oppose the amendment?

What was the main goal of abolitionists?

What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?

The 13th Amendment guaranteed equal rights. True or false?

What does 'ratified' mean?