A stockade is a defensive structure made of wooden posts or logs, often used in military or frontier settings. It serves as a barrier to protect against attacks and can be found in various historical contexts, including colonial America and during conflicts with Indigenous peoples. Stockades were typically built in a rectangular shape and could enclose a settlement or fort. In addition to their defensive purpose, stockades were sometimes used to confine prisoners or livestock. The term is also associated with the American Civil War, where stockades were used to secure military camps and protect soldiers. Overall, stockades represent a practical solution for defense and containment in various historical scenarios.