The last three questions were to become the reference of every subsequent struggle to defend the rights of the indigenous peoples of the americas. Pagden then turned upon the colonists, now quoting the friar with what right he demanded of them? And with what justice do you keep these poor indians in such cruel and horrible servitude? By what authority have you made such detestable wars against these people who lived peacefully and gently on their own lands? Are these not men? Do they not have rational souls? Are you not obliged to love them as yourselves? Was to guide his actions for the rest of his life.