The 13th Amendment Ends Slavery — Reading Comprehension

The 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution ended slavery in the country. Before this law, many people were forced to work as slaves, mostly in the southern states. They did not have freedom or rights. The fight to end slavery was long and hard. It took the bravery of many people and leaders to make a change.

In 1861, the Civil War began. The North and South fought over many issues, but slavery was one of the biggest. President Abraham Lincoln wanted to keep the country together and end slavery. In 1863, he gave the Emancipation Proclamation. It said, "all persons held as slaves... shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free." But this only freed slaves in some states. A new law was needed to end slavery everywhere.

In 1865, Congress passed the 13th Amendment. The amendment said, "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude... shall exist within the United States." This meant that slavery was not allowed anymore. Many people celebrated when the amendment passed. It was a big step for freedom and justice. The law was ratified, or approved, by the states in December 1865.

The end of slavery changed America. Former slaves could now begin new lives. It also showed that people could work together to solve problems. The 13th Amendment was important for building a more fair country.

Interesting Fact: The 13th Amendment was the first change to the Constitution after the Civil War.

Who was president during the Civil War?

What year did the Civil War begin?

Which amendment ended slavery?

Why did Congress pass the 13th Amendment?

What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?

How did the 13th Amendment help America?

The 13th Amendment ended slavery forever. True or False?

What does "ratified" mean?