The Code of Hammurabi World History Question Why

The Code of Hammurabi World History

Question • Why are rules important?

The Code of Hammurabi "to bring about the rule of righteousness in the land… so that the strong should not harm the weak. "

King Hammurabi • Hammurabi was King of Babylon in a region known as Mesopotamia (modern day Iraq). • He was one of the first known kings to codify law (put it in writing for everyone to see) • The law promoted the kings power and created stability.

Babylon (Visual Depiction)

Environment This area is home to plant domestication, animal domestication, and the first civilizations. The harsh environment made life difficult. Cities often fought each other for resources Law and order were essential to bring stability.

Social Structure • The law was created to provide answers to life’s daily dilemmas. • It reinforced the class system (Kings, Priests, landowners, land-renters and artisans, and slaves) • Laws were applied differently depending on your class ranking. • Patriarchal society (male dominated)

IMPACT !!! • Code of Hammurabi stresses the significance of 1) publicizing, 2) standardizing, 3) enforcing law within a city and 4) providing justice. • Other civilizations and religions would follow Hammurabi’s example by stating rules for people to follow.

Examples • The Bible, Quran, Ten Commandments, the Rigveda communicate religious beliefs and rules. • The Law of Nations(Rome), Magna Carta(England), Bill of Rights(U. S), and all Government Constitutions.