Common law (in the original sense) was indeed the law of the land — not written by kings or parliaments, but recognized by custom, tradition, and moral consensus. • It was enforced by juries of peers — the 12-person jury system that protected citizens from unjust authority. • And yes, common law crimes like murder, theft, rape, and arson were punishable because they violated the shared peace and safety of society — even before governments codified them.

That system formed the backbone of both English and early American justice.