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Notable Quote

"The barbarians undoubtedly possessed true dominion, both public and private, before the arrival of the Spaniards among them, just as Christians possess it. Neither their princes nor private persons could be despoiled of their property on the ground that they were not true owners."

— Vitoria, Francisco de event 1532

From De Indis (On the Indians)

Context: On the natural rights and sovereignty of indigenous peoples under natural law. De Indis (1532), from the Relectio de Indis. One of the first systematic arguments that natural rights apply universally regardless of religion.

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school School of Salamanca balance Natural Law balance Natural Rights person Individual Rights key Property Rights history History