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The Twelve Tables

Various Authors

451-450 BCE
The Twelve Tables
Project Gutenberg

"The Twelve Tables" is a foundational legal text from ancient Rome, created in 451-450 BCE. It represents the earliest attempt by the Romans to create a code of law and is considered the foundation of Roman law. The Twelve Tables were inscribed on bronze tablets and publicly displayed in the Roman Forum, ensuring that all citizens were aware of the laws governing them.

The text covers various aspects of daily life, including property rights, family law, and criminal justice. It reflects the values and social norms of early Roman society and provides a glimpse into the legal and cultural framework of the time. The Twelve Tables were instrumental in shaping the development of Roman law and influenced legal systems throughout history.

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