Black Code

[ blak kohd ]

noun

, U.S. History.

1. (in the ex-Confederate states) any code of law that defined and especially limited the rights of formerly enslaved African Americans in the period immediately following the Civil War.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Black Code¹

First recorded in 1745–50

Example Sentences

It is on account of Slavery, with the Black Code, which is its offspring.

From Project Gutenberg

To govern them, in 1724 a set of laws known as the Black Code was promulgated by the governor.

From Project Gutenberg

Spanish law was installed, although the French Black Code was retained.

From Project Gutenberg

Slavery and the Black Code were not to obtain license under any such terms.

From Project Gutenberg

When I came to Indiana to reside the unfriendly black code was in force.

From Project Gutenberg