Introduction, Function, and Purpose of Legal History: A Conceptual and Practical Review

Maysarah Nasution; Habri Fernando Manurung

doi:10.55927/mudima.v5i11.683

Authors

Maysarah Nasution Universitas Pembinaan Masyarakat Indonesia
Habri Fernando Manurung Universitas Pembinaan Masyarakat Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/mudima.v5i11.683

Keywords:

History of Law, Function of Law, Purpose of Law, Law Reform, Normative Legal Studies

Abstract

This study aims to provide an in-depth explanation of the definition, functions, and objectives of the discipline of legal history. As a branch of knowledge that bridges the past with the present, legal history is often overlooked, even though it plays a crucial role in the formation, interpretation, and reform of law. This study uses normative legal research methods with a library research approach. Data were collected through the analysis of documents, textbooks, scientific journals, and other relevant literature. The results of the study indicate that (1) the understanding of legal history is not limited to the chronology of legal events, but is a critical study of the evolution of norms, institutions, and legal thought in its social, political, and economic context. (2) The functions of legal history include the educational function (providing understanding), the pragmatic function (assisting in interpretation and formation of law), and the critical function (revealing the ideology and power behind the law). The main goal of studying legal history is to understand the identity and character of a legal system, avoid past mistakes, and provide a strong foundation for future law reform. This study concludes that legal history is an essential analytical tool for academics, practitioners, and policymakers to understand the law in a comprehensive, dynamic, and contextual manner

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