What did the 13th Amendment accomplish?

The 13th Amendment accomplished the abolition of slavery in the United States, making it illegal to enslave or involuntarily servitude any individual, except as punishment for a crime. Ratified in December 1865, this amendment was a pivotal moment in American history as it formally ended the institution of slavery that had been entrenched in the country since its founding. Its passage was a crucial step in the broader struggle for civil rights and equality, laying the groundwork for subsequent legislation aimed at securing freedom and rights for formerly enslaved individuals.

The other options represent important aspects of American history but do not pertain to the specific legal changes enacted by the 13th Amendment. For instance, women's suffrage was achieved later through the 19th Amendment, civil rights for former slaves were addressed more extensively in the 14th and 15th Amendments, and the establishment of income tax corresponds to the 16th Amendment, which came much later.