Historical evidence that humans need laws and societal restrictions?

I’m writing a paper about John Stuart Mill’s view that full individual liberty is needed in order for human development and society to progress. He assumes that, if society does not punish behavior, man will make the best decisions for himself.

Similarly, Immanuel Kant said during the Enlightenment that one is not truly enlightened until they have full human autonomy with no restriction from the government/law.

My argument is that man in his natural form is not inherently good and that while liberty and autonomy are necessities to progression, FULL liberty and autonomy would only hurt society.

So, in short, what are some HISTORICAL examples of societal restrictions and laws being necessary? From about 1500–1850 is the time period I’m looking at (Enlightenment, Scientific Revolution, French Revolution, WWI, etc.). I’m having trouble finding historical information to include in my argument, but it’s required for the paper. I’m just looking for ideas and nothing is really coming to me.