Question

Convict leasing was able to operate because of a clause in the
13th Amendment
14th Amendment
15th Amendment
16th Amendment
19th Amendment

Answer 1

Convict leasing was able to operate because of a clause in the **13th Amendment**. The 13th Amendment, ratified in 1865, abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, but it included an exception for punishment for a crime. This clause allowed states to lease convicts to private companies, effectively continuing a form of forced labor.