In ancient Mesopotamia, the primary purpose of punishment was retribution, or the infliction of pain or suffering on the offender as a just response to their crime.

The Code of Hammurabi is famous for its principle of retaliation, known as 'an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth'.

In ancient Egypt, the vizier served as the chief judge and was responsible for overseeing the administration of justice.

The primary purpose of the Twelve Tables was to codify existing laws and customs, rather than to introduce new laws or reforms.

The Areopagus was the supreme court of ancient Greece and was responsible for trying cases involving homicide, arson, and other serious crimes.

The Athenian legal system emphasized democracy in several ways, including open trials, citizen participation in juries, and the passage of laws by a vote of the assembly.

The primary goal of the ancient Chinese legal system was to maintain social order and stability, rather than to protect individual rights or promote economic prosperity.

The Qin Dynasty's legal reforms were primarily motivated by the desire to centralize power and control, rather than to promote economic growth or improve social welfare.

The dharma in ancient India encompassed religious law, moral code, and legal code, and played a significant role in the administration of justice.

The Arthashastra advocates for severe punishment of crimes in order to deter future offenses.

The shogun in ancient Japan was the head of government and had significant influence over the administration of justice.

The Tokugawa Shogunate's legal reforms were primarily aimed at centralizing power and control, rather than promoting economic growth or improving social welfare.

The griot in ancient Africa played a significant role as a mediator and peacemaker, helping to resolve disputes and maintain social harmony.

The Songhai Empire's legal system was primarily focused on maintaining social order and stability, rather than protecting individual rights or promoting economic prosperity.

The tlamatini in ancient Mesoamerica served as both judge and jury, playing a central role in the administration of justice.