Project: slave codes
slave laws, called slave codes, varied in detail from state to state but were generally restrictive and negative, and strengthened during periods of increased abolitionist activity. slaves that broke any of the laws or codes were tried in regular courts or slave tribunals. the usual punishment for an infraction was whipping; but branding, imprisonment, or execution were the punishments for more serious offenses.

use an encyclopedia, the internet, or other sources to research the slave codes. then write a 500 word report. the following questions are offered as guidelines to address in your report. you are not limited to this list.

possible questions:

1. what specific restrictions were placed on slaves? were the same restrictions placed on free blacks?
2. how did free blacks respond to the slave codes?
3. what did abolitionists do in response to the slave codes?
4. when and how did the codes change? when and how were slave codes eliminated?