What Is? Capitis Diminutio Maxima

Capitis Diminutio Maxima (meaning a maximum loss of status through the use of capitalization, e.g. JOHN DOE or DOE JOHN) - The highest or most comprehensive loss of status.  This occurred when a man's condition was changed from one of freedom to one of bondage, when he became a slave.  It swept away with it all rights of citizenship and all family rights.