Code of Hammurabi Activity

What was the primary purpose of the Code of Hammurabi?

• To establish standards for commercial interactions and justice

• To expand the Babylonian empire

• To create a religious doctrine

• To unite all of Mesopotamia

Name a low from this list that practices "innocent until proven guilty". How has this influenced current lawmaking?

What happens if someone is accused and the river proves them not guilty according to the Code of Hammurabi?

• The accuser is put to death

• The accused is put to death

• The accused must pay a fine

• The accuser takes possession of the accused's house

Were people in Mesopotamia treated equally? Explain why or why not

Which of the following is a consequence for a judge who makes an error in judgment according to the Code of Hammurabi?

• The judge must pay twelve times the fine set by him

• The judge is promoted

• The judge is given a warning

• The judge is fined a small amount

Mesopotamian society is PATRIARCHAL, which means ruled by men. Do these codes support that claim?

What is the punishment for stealing from the temple or court according to the Code of Hammurabi?

• Death for both the thief and the receiver of stolen goods

• A fine

• Imprisonment

• Community service

Do you believe these laws were fair? What are some flaws to these laws that you see that are ineffective?

According to the Code of Hammurabi, what is the punishment for a son who strikes his father?

• His hands shall be cut off

• He shall be put to death

• He shall pay a fine

• He shall be exiled

The laws and punishments of today’s society are very different than that of ancient Babylonia. Why do you think that is? How have laws progressed since this first law code?