2. Historical development: Abolition and the Civil War amendments

Historical developments and consequences

The Emancipation Proclamation took effect in 1863 in areas in rebellion. The Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in 1865, the Fourteenth established birthright citizenship and equal protection in 1868, and the Fifteenth barred race-based denial of voting rights in 1870.

These changes transformed constitutional citizenship, but racial terror and restrictive laws obstructed their enforcement.

Original historical article · Authorities & decisions

Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation effective January 1, 1863, applying to designated areas in rebellion. Congress proposed the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865, the Fourteenth in 1866 and the Fifteenth in 1869; ratification followed in 1865, 1868 and 1870.