barricade

Barricade is a structure that blocks or obstructs passage, typically erected quickly to control access to a location. Barricades may be temporary or improvised, and they can be designed to deter pedestrians, vehicles, or both. The term originates from the French word barricade, related to barrier and bar, reflecting its function as a barrier to entry.

Historically, barricades have been used in warfare, urban uprisings, and civil disturbances. Notable uses include the barricades of the 1830 July Revolution in Paris, the 1848 revolutions, and the 1871 Paris Commune. In modern times, barricades are deployed by police, security forces, and civil groups during protests and crowd control, as well as in construction zones and event venues to delineate safe routes.

Common forms and materials include portable crowd-control barriers made of steel or plastic, Jersey barriers and other concrete barriers used to stop vehicles, sandbags, earth mounds, wooden pallets, chain-link fencing, and water-filled barriers. Barricades can be fixed or movable, and may include signage or lighting.

Legal and safety considerations accompany barricading activities. Erecting barricades on public rights-of-way may require permits and can impede emergency services; improper construction can create hazards, collapse risk, or cause injuries in high winds or heavy traffic. Barricades are typically designed to resist specified loads and to be removable or reassignable as needed.