How long ago can the earliest written and recorded codes of law be dated?

The earliest written and recorded codes of law can be traced back approximately 4,000 years. This timeframe typically refers to documents such as the Code of Ur-Nammu, which is one of the oldest known law codes from ancient Mesopotamia and dates back to around 2100-2050 BCE. Another significant example is the Code of Hammurabi, which was established later but also provides critical insights into ancient legal systems. These early codes laid the groundwork for future legal systems, reflecting the societal values and regulations of those times. Thus, the correct time frame is indeed around 4,000 years ago.