The Law To Know

Free living map

The History of Law: A Living Map

Written law begins with ancient codes. Roman law developed from the Twelve Tables through classical jurists to Justinian’s codification, which became the basis of the civil law tradition in Europe; the common law grew separately in England from judges’ decisions and the doctrine of precedent; and legal Latin keeps the vocabulary of both. Press Play to watch the map build, click an idea for its definition and the usual trap, or trace a short case. A simplified teaching map of the general approach (mainly US law); check the law where you work.

revived in Europeseparate growth in England

Hover over an idea to light up what it connects to, click it for its definition, minimum requirements, an example and the usual trap, press Play to watch the map build step by step, or trace a short case through it.

Simplified teaching map, in general terms. Check the law where you work. On a small screen, scroll the map sideways.

Learn it properly

The full lecture, exercises and quiz behind this map are in History of Law: Module 1, and that module is free to read.

More living maps