What does the 13th Amendment to the Constitution abolish?

The 13th Amendment to the Constitution, ratified in 1865, abolished slavery and involuntary servitude in the United States, except as punishment for a crime. This amendment was a significant milestone in American history, as it formally ended the institution of slavery that had existed for over two centuries and was a key aspect of the broader movement toward civil rights and equality in the aftermath of the Civil War. The abolition of slavery marked a fundamental shift in U.S. society and law, laying the groundwork for future amendments and civil rights legislation aimed at achieving equality for all citizens.