What was unique about the Code of Hammurabi compared to earlier laws?

The uniqueness of the Code of Hammurabi lies in its written format, making it one of the earliest and most significant examples of codified law in history. Unlike earlier legal traditions that were primarily transmitted orally, the Code was inscribed on a stele, which allowed for a standardized set of laws accessible to the public. This written format not only facilitated greater consistency in legal judgments but also promoted the idea that laws should be known and understood by all members of society, rather than being the prerogative of local authorities or a select few. This development marked a significant advancement in legal systems, as it established the principle of written law as a foundation for governance and civic order. The subsequent influence of Hammurabi's Code on other legal systems illustrates its importance in the evolution of jurisprudence.