The primary aim of the abolitionist movement in the United States was to end slavery and secure equal rights for African Americans. Abolitionists sought to raise public awareness about the moral and ethical implications of slavery, advocating for emancipation and full citizenship. The movement gained momentum in the early to mid-19th century, with prominent figures like Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman leading the charge. The movement culminated in the Civil War, ultimately resulting in the passage of the 13th Amendment in 1865, which abolished slavery. The legacy of the abolitionist movement continues to influence discussions around civil rights and social justice today.