Francisco de Vitoria: Father of Modern Human Rights

The chapter examines the pivotal role of Francisco de Vitoria in shaping the modern conception of human rights during the 16th century, challenging the commonly held view that human rights emerged solely in the 1950s and 60s. Vitoria's advocacy for the humanity and rights of indigenous people in the face of Spanish colonialism, his emphasis on shared humanity and communication between Spaniards and Indians, and his influence on international law positions him as a key figure in the development of human rights and international law.