What key figure is associated with the abolition of slavery in the United States?

The key figure associated with the abolition of slavery in the United States is Abraham Lincoln. As the 16th President, Lincoln played a crucial role in the landmark action to end slavery through the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which declared all enslaved people in Confederate states to be free. This pivotal declaration redefined the Civil War's purpose, showcasing a commitment to ending slavery not just as a war aim but as a moral imperative.

Beyond the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln's leadership in securing the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment, which officially abolished slavery in the United States in 1865, further cements his legacy as a key figure in the abolition movement. Lincoln's vision and political maneuvers were essential in navigating a path toward freedom for enslaved individuals, making him a central figure in this transformative era of American history.