This Date in Black History: Lincoln Signed a Resolution to End Slavery

February 1, 1865

On this date in Black History, the official post-Congressional process of abolishing slavery in the United States began!

The 13th Amendment to the Constitution says "Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction." This amendment was passed by Congress on January 31, 1865 and the following day (Feb. 1.), President Abraham Lincoln signed a Joint Resolution submitting the proposed 13th Amendment to the states. However, it wasn't until December that the amendment was ratified by the State of Georgia, making the institution of slavery illegal in the United States of America.