Code of Ur-Nammu
The Code of Ur-Nammu is one of the oldest known legal codes, created around 2100-2050 BCE in ancient Sumer. It was established by Ur-Nammu, the king of the city-state of Ur, and is notable for its progressive approach to justice, emphasizing fairness and the protection of the vulnerable.
This code consists of a series of laws that address various aspects of daily life, including marriage, property rights, and penalties for offenses. Unlike later codes, such as the Code of Hammurabi, the Code of Ur-Nammu is characterized by its focus on monetary compensation rather than harsh physical punishments.