What ancient set of legal codes is known for its influence on later legal systems?

The Code of Hammurabi is recognized as one of the earliest and most significant collections of laws in ancient history, dating back to about 1754 BCE in Babylon. Its influence on later legal systems is profound due to several key characteristics.

First, the Code established a comprehensive set of laws governing various aspects of daily life, including trade, property rights, family relationships, and criminal justice. This detail provided a systematic approach to governance and legal adjudication that many civilizations would later adopt or adapt.

Additionally, the Code is notable for introducing the principle of lex talionis, or the law of retribution, often summarized as "an eye for an eye." This concept of proportional justice has echoed throughout legal traditions across different cultures and eras, informing ideas about fairness and punishment.

The structured format of the Code, presenting laws in a clear and accessible manner, has also influenced the organization of subsequent legal documents, making it easier for citizens to understand their rights and responsibilities.

Overall, the Code of Hammurabi serves as a foundational text in the history of law, providing critical insights into the early development of governance and legal principles that continue to resonate in modern legal systems around the world.