The history of law dates back to ancient civilizations, where laws were written on various materials. The materials used for writing laws have evolved over time, and this article will explore the different materials used to document laws.
Clay Tablets
One of the earliest forms of writing was on clay tablets. The Mesopotamians used clay tablets to write their laws, and they were typically inscribed with a stylus. The laws were then baked to preserve them, and they would last for centuries.
Papyrus Scrolls
The ancient Egyptians used papyrus scrolls to write their laws. Papyrus was made from the pith of the papyrus plant, which was abundant in the Nile Delta. The papyrus was cut into strips and then layered horizontally and vertically to create a sheet. The sheets were then glued together to form a scroll.
Vellum and Parchment
During the Middle Ages, vellum and parchment were commonly used to write laws. Vellum was made from calf skin, while parchment was made from sheep, goat, or cow skin. These materials were durable and could withstand the test of time.
Paper
With the invention of the printing press in the 15th century, paper became the preferred material for writing laws. Paper was easier to produce and could be mass-produced, making it more accessible to the general public.
Conclusion
The materials used to write laws have evolved over time, from clay tablets to paper. Each material had its advantages and disadvantages, but they all served the same purpose of documenting laws. Today, laws are typically stored electronically, but the tradition of documenting laws on physical materials remains an important part of legal history.
