Law of Ur-Nammu

The Law of Ur-Nammu, dating back to around 2100 BCE in ancient Mesopotamia, is one of the earliest known legal codes. It established rules for societal order and justice, such as fines or punishments for crimes like theft, assault, and property damage. The code emphasizes fairness, typically requiring the offender to compensate the victim, often with monetary restitution. It reflects a society striving for social stability through standardized laws and consequences, laying foundational principles for later legal systems.