Exploring Acta Diurna: The Historical Public Register of Roman Law

Definition & Meaning

The term "Acta Diurna" refers to a public record of daily events, originally used in ancient Rome. It served as a daily gazette that documented the proceedings of the senate, public assemblies, and courts. These records were typically inscribed on stone or metal and displayed in public areas for citizens to read. The Acta Diurna was also known by several other names, including public acts and acts of the people.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a modern equivalent of the Acta Diurna could be the daily publication of court dockets in a local courthouse, where citizens can view the schedule and outcomes of court cases. (Hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Public Records Documents or pieces of information that are not considered confidential and can be accessed by the public. Acta Diurna specifically refers to daily governmental proceedings, while public records encompass a wider range of documents.
Gazette A publication that provides official announcements and news. A gazette may include various types of announcements, while Acta Diurna focuses on daily legislative and judicial activities.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are interested in accessing public records similar to the Acta Diurna, consider checking your local government's website or courthouse for available documents. You can also explore US Legal Forms for templates that can guide you in creating or requesting public records. If you encounter complex issues, consulting a legal professional may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Origin: Ancient Rome
  • Purpose: Document daily government proceedings
  • Format: Inscribed on stone or metal
  • Modern Equivalent: Public records and court dockets

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is a historical record of daily governmental proceedings from ancient Rome.