Hammurabi's Code Worksheets for Grade 7 Social Studies

🏛️ Topic Summary

Hammurabi's Code was one of the earliest and most complete written legal codes. Proclaimed by the Babylonian King Hammurabi, who reigned from 1792 to 1750 BC, the code consisted of 282 laws with scaled punishments, adjusting "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth" (lex talionis) as graded depending on social status, of slave versus free man.

These laws covered a wide range of topics, including trade, family, property, and personal injury. They provide valuable insights into the social structure and values of ancient Mesopotamia. Get ready to explore this fascinating piece of history!

🔑 Part A: Vocabulary

Match the following terms with their correct definitions:

1. Lex Talionis
2. Babylon
3. Hammurabi
4. Code
5. Mesopotamia

Definitions:

1. A set of laws or regulations.
2. An ancient region located in modern-day Iraq and parts of surrounding countries.
3. The principle of retaliation; "an eye for an eye".
4. The sixth king of Babylon.
5. An ancient city located in Mesopotamia, near present-day Baghdad.

✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the following sentences using the words provided:

(punishment, justice, laws, society, Hammurabi)

The Code of _______ was created to establish _______ and order in _______. These _______ outlined specific _______ for various offenses.

🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking

Imagine you are living in ancient Babylon during Hammurabi's reign. How do you think the Code would affect your daily life? Explain your answer.