The 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified on December 6, 1865, abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime. This amendment was a critical moment in Black history as it marked the official end of chattel slavery in the United States following the Civil War.

The 13th Amendment was a major victory for the abolitionist movement and the culmination of years of struggle and resistance by enslaved Black people, as well as the efforts of their allies. However, while the amendment technically ended slavery, it did not guarantee equality or full citizenship rights for Black Americans.

Despite the passage of the 13th Amendment, systemic racism and discrimination continued to oppress Black Americans through segregation, voter suppression, and other forms of institutionalized racism. It was not until the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s that significant progress was made in advancing civil rights and equality for Black Americans.

Overall, the 13th Amendment stands as a pivotal moment in Black history, symbolizing the long and ongoing struggle for freedom, justice, and equality for African Americans in the United States.