The Code Noir was more than law—it was a script for suffering, a doctrine of domination dressed in the language of governance. Issued in 1685 under King Louis XIV, it was not merely a set of rules but an architecture of control, regulating the lives of our ancestors, whether free or enslaved, across the French Empire. It was an extractive decree that sought to define Blackness itself—not as a birthright of humanity, but as a condition to be managed, disciplined, and exploited.
Articles: 1-5
Article I. It is our will and command that the Edict of 23 April 1615, issued by the late King—our most honored lord and father, whose memory remains glorious—be enforced without exception in our islands. To this end, we charge all our officers with the task of expelling from our territories all Jews who have established residence therein. As they are enemies of Christianity, we decree that they must depart within three months from the issuance of this [order], failing which their persons and property shall be seized and confiscated.
Article II. All slaves present within our islands shall be baptized and instructed in the Roman, Catholic, and Apostolic Faith. We command all settlers who purchase newly arrived Negroes to report this acquisition to the Governor and Intendant of the islands within no more than eight days, under penalty of a fine to be determined at our discretion. Upon notification, the necessary arrangements must be made to ensure that these Negroes receive religious instruction and baptism within an appropriate timeframe.
Article III. We expressly forbid the public practice of any religion other than the Roman, Catholic, and Apostolic Faith. Those who violate this decree shall be punished as rebels and enemies of our authority. Furthermore, we forbid any unauthorized religious gatherings, which we declare to be clandestine, unlawful, and seditious, and we order that such transgressions be met with the same severity as any master who tolerates or permits such actions among his slaves.
Article IV. No person shall be permitted to hold authority over Negroes unless they are members of the Roman, Catholic, and Apostolic Faith. Any master who appoints a non-Catholic to such a position shall risk the confiscation of their Negroes, and those who accept such positions despite their religious status shall be subject to punishment at our discretion.
Article V. We forbid all subjects who adhere to the so-called “Reformed” religion from interfering in any manner—whether through obstruction or discord—with the free practice of the Roman, Catholic, and Apostolic Faith, either among our subjects or their own slaves. Any violation of this command shall be met with the most severe and exemplary punishment.