Civil War Amendments

Between 1861 and 1870, three key amendments to the US Constitution were ratified, significantly altering the nation's social and political landscape. Initially, the 13th Amendment aimed to legalize slavery but was later revised to abolish it. The 14th Amendment established citizenship as a birthright, providing equal protection under the law. The 15th Amendment granted Black men the right to vote. These amendments collectively paved the way for major social and political changes, ensuring freedom and legal protection for African-Americans and allowing Black men to participate in governance.

What was the original intention of the 13th Amendment when it was first proposed?

• To grant voting rights to women

• To make slavery legal

• To establish a federal income tax

• To abolish slavery

What significant change did the revised 13th Amendment bring about?

• It legalized slavery

• It established the Supreme Court

• It granted women the right to vote

• It abolished slavery

Which president played a crucial role in the passage of the 13th Amendment?

• Andrew Johnson

• Thomas Jefferson

• Ulysses S. Grant

• Abraham Lincoln

What did the 14th Amendment define as a birthright?

• The right to bear arms

• The right to vote

• US citizenship

• Freedom of speech

What right did the 15th Amendment grant to Black men?

• The right to a fair trial

• The right to free speech

• The right to vote

• The right to own property