Middle Ages Regents Practice

Which statement best describes the significance of the Justinian Code?

1. It was the first democratic constitution

2. It became a model for European legal systems

3. It preserved many ancient Chinese legal decrees

4. It united Muslim and Roman thought

The correct answer is: It became a model for European legal systems

The Justinian Code, also known as the Corpus Juris Civilis, is significant primarily because it became a model for European legal systems. Created under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, this compilation of laws and legal interpretations was pivotal in shaping the development of civil law in various European nations. The Code systematized and clarified legal principles, which was especially important at a time when the Roman Empire's legal system was fragmented. As Europe transitioned from feudal systems to more centralized forms of governance, the influence of the Justinian Code can be seen in the establishment of civil law traditions, particularly in countries like France and Italy. Its principles, having been preserved and transmitted through the centuries, provided a foundation for modern legal codes and the concept of codified law in many jurisdictions. This enduring impact highlights the Code's role as a cornerstone in the evolution of Western legal systems, making option B the most accurate choice.