The Code of Hammurabi, established by King Hammurabi of Babylon around 1754 BC, is significant in ancient history as one of the earliest and most complete written legal codes. The code consists of 282 laws that regulate various aspects of society, including trade, property, family relationships, and civil rights. Its principles, such as "an eye for an eye," emphasized justice and retribution. The Code of Hammurabi laid the groundwork for future legal systems and governance, illustrating the importance of law and order in ancient civilizations and influencing legal thought for centuries.