A stockade is a defensive structure made of tall wooden posts or logs, often arranged vertically and closely spaced. Historically, stockades were used to protect settlements or military encampments from attacks. They served as barriers against intruders and wild animals, providing safety for the people inside. In addition to their military use, stockades were sometimes employed in colonial America for the protection of settlers. They could also be used as a form of punishment, where individuals were confined within the structure. Overall, stockades represent a significant aspect of early defensive architecture in various cultures.