Hugo Grotius

International Law Dutch 1583 – 1645 103 quotes

A Dutch jurist and philosopher, considered the father of international law, whose 'On the Law of War and Peace' laid the groundwork for modern international legal principles.

Quotes by Hugo Grotius

Even in war, humanity must prevail over savagery.

De Jure Belli ac Pacis 1625

The law of nations is derived from natural law and the customs of peoples.

De Jure Belli ac Pacis 1625

Property rights arise from occupation and consent.

Mare Liberum 1609

No state has dominion over the open sea.

Mare Liberum 1609

Reason is the common bond of humanity.

De Veritate Religionis Christianae 1627

True religion consists in the love of God and neighbor.

De Veritate Religionis Christianae 1627

In matters of state, prudence must guide action.

Letter to a Friend 1613

Exile sharpens the mind but wounds the heart.

Personal Correspondence 1621

Knowledge is the light that dispels the darkness of ignorance.

Parallelon Rerum 1601

The pursuit of truth requires courage and humility.

De Jure Belli ac Pacis 1625

Laws without justice are but chains upon the innocent.

De Jure Belli ac Pacis 1625

Friendship is the noblest bond between nations.

De Jure Belli ac Pacis 1625

The sea is common to all, like the air we breathe.

Mare Liberum 1609

Tyranny arises when rulers forget they serve the people.

De Jure Belli ac Pacis 1625

Mercy in victory is the mark of true greatness.

De Jure Belli ac Pacis 1625

The voice of the law is the harmony of reason.

De Jure Belli ac Pacis 1625

In adversity, philosophy is the best consolation.

Letter from Prison 1619

International commerce fosters peace among peoples.

Mare Liberum 1609

The just war is waged for the defense of rights.

De Jure Belli ac Pacis 1625

Humanity demands that prisoners be treated with dignity.

De Jure Belli ac Pacis 1625