Twelve Tables

The Twelve Tables were a set of laws established in ancient Rome around 450 BCE. They represented the first attempt to create a written legal code, which aimed to provide clear rules and protections for Roman citizens. The laws covered various aspects of daily life, including family, property, and legal procedures. By making laws public, the Twelve Tables helped to ensure fairness and accountability, reducing the power of judges who previously interpreted laws at their discretion. This foundational legal document significantly influenced the development of Roman law and later legal systems throughout history.