-
1750 BCE
The Code Of Hammurabi
The Code Of Hammurabi is one of the earliest records of law being written down. Nearly 300 of the laws were carved into stone. It was based on the system of retribution. Meaning that a punishment for a wrong was deserved. The consistency about the punishments for each crime was written down. When laws were broken very harsh punishments were called upon. Example: The penalty for receiving stolen goods was death. -
1240 BCE
The Mosaic Law
These laws Moses gave to the Hebrew people. Moses has said to been given the law from God. These laws were carved on two stones, also called the 10 commandments. Restitution was practised under this law, which is the act of making good restoring or compensation for what has been done wrong. Example: If a person stole they would be expected to repay the goods that had been stolen. -
550 BCE
Justinian Code
The Byzantine Emperor Justinian codified 1000 years of Roman Law. This code emphasized equality under the law. -
1000
Feudal System
This took place when France conquered England and land was decided among the nobles. The lords had servants for which they would judge laws, but inconsistency arose. The judges began overlooking cases. Now, these decisions lead to what is currently known as common law in England. -
1215
Magna Carter
This document was made after King John of England abused his power. Which introduced the Rule of Law: all people rulers and commoners must follow the same laws. Also introduced Habeas Corpus: a person must be brought to court to decide if they are being legally obtained. -
1265
Parliament and Statute Law
The English nobility wanted more power and challenged King Henry III. This was the first parliament created, the parliament jobs was to pass laws. They began writing down laws which the public could read. -
Napoleonic Code
This code is also known as the French civil code. Napoleon was in control of most of Europe at this time and because of thus most of Europe followed this model.