The House of Representatives passes the Thirteen Amendment, which sends the amendment to the state legislatures. Following the Emancipation Proclamation, Congress sought to formally outlaw slavery and involuntary servitude. The amendment was ratified on December 6, 1865 as Georgia became the 27th state to ratify it.
Now in its 75th year, American Heritage relies on contributions from readers like you to survive. You can support this magazine of trusted historical writing and the volunteers that sustain it by donating today.
