In ancient Mesopotamia, the death penalty was the most common form of punishment for serious crimes, such as murder, theft, and treason.

In ancient Egypt, the vizier was the chief judge and was responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient Greece, the archon was the chief magistrate and was responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient Rome, the praetor was the chief judge and was responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient China, the emperor was the supreme ruler and was responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient India, the dharma was the legal code and was used to enforce laws.

In ancient Japan, the shogun was the military dictator and was responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient Africa, the tribal elders were the leaders of the community and were responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient America, the chiefs were the leaders of the tribes and were responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient Australia, the elders were the leaders of the clans and were responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient Polynesia, the chiefs were the leaders of the villages and were responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient Micronesia, the chiefs were the leaders of the islands and were responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient Melanesia, the chiefs were the leaders of the tribes and were responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient Southeast Asia, the kings were the supreme rulers and were responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.

In ancient Central Asia, the khans were the supreme rulers and were responsible for overseeing the enforcement of laws.