What did the 13th Amendment accomplish?

The 13th Amendment, ratified in 1865, accomplished the critical task of abolishing slavery in the United States. This amendment made it illegal to hold individuals in servitude or forced labor, effectively ending the institution of slavery that had been a defining and controversial aspect of American society. By eliminating the legal foundation that allowed for slavery, the 13th Amendment was a significant milestone in the fight for civil rights and laid the groundwork for subsequent amendments and legislation aimed at ensuring equality for all citizens. The other options presented address different legal and constitutional changes not related to the core function of the 13th Amendment, such as voting rights, taxation, and free speech protections.