Physical abuse of children is not a recent phenomenon. Mistreatment of children goes back centuries. Child abuse can be traced back to the earliest civilizations. As a form of justice, civilizations placed rules and punished those who didn’t follow rules. Many ancient civilizations had different forms of punishment. One of the most common punishments was for a child to be pushed into cactus spines or forced to inhale smoke. In the early Babylonian law the principle “talionics” was placed for criminals in the early years (Encyclopedia Britannica). Historically, punishment has been a way to degrade, injure, and humiliate the oppressed. Over the year’s punishments have become less physically harsh compared to centuries ago (Lyons L). In the United Stated the Supreme Court banned spanking or paddling thirty-six years ago. However, many private schools and parents are still permitted to hit their students or children. The government since the 1960’s has passed many laws against child neglect and abuse. However, changing the laws doesn’t always mean changing behavior or practices. Physical and psychological abuse of children continues to be a major issue today. The most beneficial Act that the U.S Congress implemented that made a big significant impact for child protection and child welfare was the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act in 1974.