Which amendment protects individuals from slavery and involuntary servitude?

The 13th Amendment is specifically designed to address and eliminate the institution of slavery and involuntary servitude in the United States. Ratified in 1865, this amendment states, “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, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.”

This amendment was a crucial step in the post-Civil War era, ensuring that any form of forced labor could not be legally sanctioned, except for those who were duly convicted of a crime. Its adoption marked a significant change in American society, affirming the principle of personal freedom and individual rights. Therefore, it effectively abolished slavery across the entirety of the United States.

The other amendments mentioned do not focus on slavery or involuntary servitude. The 12th Amendment pertains to the process of electing the President and Vice President, while the 14th Amendment addresses citizenship rights and equal protection under the law, and the 15th Amendment focuses on voting rights, ensuring that citizens cannot be denied the right to vote based on race.