The development of the landlord's hypothec

Abstract

In ancient Rome personal security was the most common form of security. This may be attributed to the large number of relationships based on fidelity. Most substantial transactions on credit were accompanied by such security. Fideiussio (suretyship or a fidelity bond) was concluded by means of stipulatio. In terms of this verbal contract the surety or guarantor pledged himself to fulfil the debtor's agreement towards the creditor if the debtor could not honour it.