Shackles are devices used to restrain a person's movement, typically made of metal. They often consist of a pair of linked cuffs that are placed around the wrists or ankles. Historically, shackles have been used in various contexts, including prisons and during the transatlantic slave trade, to limit the freedom of individuals. In modern times, shackles are still used in some correctional facilities and for transporting prisoners. They can also refer to any form of restraint or limitation, such as in discussions about personal freedom or social justice. The term can symbolize oppression or lack of autonomy in broader contexts.