Thirteenth Amendment Passed by Congress
January 31st, 1865
January 31st, 1865

How Long Ago?
160 years, 1 month, 15 days ago
Location
Washington, D.C., United States
Category
Politics & Government
War/Conflict
American Civil War
People
- Abraham Lincoln
- Thaddeus Stevens
- Charles Sumner
- Fernando Wood
Links & References
Tags
Thirteenth Amendment Passed by Congress
The United States Congress passed the Thirteenth Amendment, a pivotal constitutional amendment that abolished slavery throughout the United States. Following intense debates and advocacy, the House of Representatives voted in favor of the amendment, with significant support from President Abraham Lincoln, who emphasized the importance of ending slavery in his efforts to unify the nation. The amendment was then submitted to the states for ratification, marking a critical moment in American history during the Civil War.
Abolished slavery in the United States
Passed by Congress amid Civil War challenges
Required ratification by three-fourths of states
Set the stage for future civil rights advancements
What Happened?
The Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution represents a landmark change in American law and society, as it abolished slavery in the United States. Following the intense struggles of the Civil War and mounting pressures from abolitionists, President Abraham Lincoln and his allies understood that enacting a constitutional amendment was essential to ensure that the practice of slavery would not continue. The House of Representatives voted in favor of the amendment after tense debates, showcasing the divisions within Congress and reflecting the broader national conflict over slavery. The Senate had already passed the amendment, so the passage in the House was a significant step toward its ratification. With a vote of 119 to 56, the amendment was approved, and it was sent to the states for ratification.
The Thirteenth Amendment's language was clear: "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime, shall exist within the United States..." This crucial wording not only aimed to eradicate slavery but also to permanently alter American social and economic structures that relied on slave labor. The amendment required three-fourths of the states to ratify it, which was a contentious and arduous process, especially given the recent upheaval of the Civil War. Yet, this action was a profound reflection of evolving national values and set the stage for future civil rights advancements.
The eventual ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment in December highlighted the changing dynamics in American society and politics. It signified a commitment to civil rights and laid the foundation for subsequent amendments and laws aimed at achieving equality. The end of slavery also had far-reaching implications on American labor, society, and culture, impacting the lives of millions of formerly enslaved individuals who sought to redefine their roles in a post-slavery society.
Why Does it Matter?
The passage of the Thirteenth Amendment is particularly interesting because it fundamentally altered the fabric of American life. It not only abolished slavery but also paved the way for subsequent civil rights legislation and movements in America. It marked a turning point in the relationship between citizens and their government and set a legal precedent that aimed at ensuring individual freedoms and equality under the law.
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