The Origin of Human Rights
The concept of Human Rights originated in Europe during the Enlightenment period. At the time, Europe's monarchs were infamous for their brutalities, and civilians' lives were at risks. Just then, an English man by the name of John Locke appeared, and he said, "We, as humans, possess natural rights; rights that cannot be taken away from us." These words started what we know as the European monarchy abolition movement. Around Europe, civilians began to demand a "Republic" form of government that governs base on laws instead the king's will. Some nations transformed peacefully, while others did it through violent revolutions. After the transformation, most Europeans were given the basic rights to life, liberty, and property. |
John Locke - Source: Learn Liberty
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Founding Fathers of America - Source: Federalists Papers
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Human Rights in the United States
After given the rights to life, liberty, and property, Europeans were very satisfied. However, across the Atlantic, the Americans demanded more. When drafting the constitution of the United States, the founding fathers decided to create specific rights base on the foundation of life, liberty, and property. By doing so, more rights were created. For example, freedom of speech, freedom of press, and freedom of religion. |
Implication in the Modern World
In 1930, Europe and North America were the only two continents with human rights protection laws. Now, it has developed into universal idea that exists around the globe. So, how did it develop so rapidly over the past 80 years? After World War II, the United States quickly rose to power. Its revolutionary technology and strong economy allowed it to become the world's leading influencer. With such powerful influence, human rights expanded from a Western ideology to a universal principle. Adding on to the United States, the United Nations published a document titled "Universal Declaration of Human Right". The document includes 30 standardised human rights protection laws, which set an international guideline on the definition of human rights.
In 1930, Europe and North America were the only two continents with human rights protection laws. Now, it has developed into universal idea that exists around the globe. So, how did it develop so rapidly over the past 80 years? After World War II, the United States quickly rose to power. Its revolutionary technology and strong economy allowed it to become the world's leading influencer. With such powerful influence, human rights expanded from a Western ideology to a universal principle. Adding on to the United States, the United Nations published a document titled "Universal Declaration of Human Right". The document includes 30 standardised human rights protection laws, which set an international guideline on the definition of human rights.
America's First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights - Source: Britannica