Meaning: This quote by Elihu Root, a lawyer and statesman, encapsulates the complex and multifaceted nature of legal claims and obligations in the context of international relations. Root's words highlight the various factors that can underpin claims of right and the insistence upon obligations, emphasizing the role of treaty stipulations, international law, natural justice, and disputed facts in shaping the legal landscape of international affairs.

Treaty stipulations form the foundation of many international legal claims and obligations. Treaties are formal agreements between states that codify specific rights and obligations. These can include trade agreements, alliances, and arms control treaties, among others. When disputes arise between states, the terms of these treaties are often invoked to assert legal rights and obligations. Root's reference to treaty stipulations underscores the importance of these formal agreements in shaping the legal framework of international relations.

In addition to treaty stipulations, Root points to the significance of international law in governing claims of right and obligations. International law encompasses a broad range of legal principles and norms that regulate the conduct of states in their interactions with one another. These principles are derived from sources such as customary international law, treaties, and the decisions of international courts and tribunals. Root's acknowledgment of the role of international law reflects the importance of legal rules and standards in shaping the rights and responsibilities of states in the international arena.

Furthermore, Root highlights the relevance of natural justice in determining claims of right and obligations. Natural justice, also known as fundamental fairness, is a concept rooted in moral and ethical principles that transcends specific legal frameworks. It involves considerations of equity, impartiality, and the protection of fundamental rights. Root's mention of natural justice suggests that legal claims and obligations in international relations are not solely determined by formal legal rules, but also by broader considerations of fairness and justice.

Moreover, Root acknowledges the impact of disputed facts on claims of right and obligations. In many international disputes, factual disagreements are central to the legal arguments put forth by opposing parties. These disputes may involve conflicting accounts of events, differing interpretations of evidence, or contested narratives regarding the rights and obligations of the parties involved. Root's recognition of disputed facts underscores the importance of factual accuracy and the resolution of evidentiary conflicts in determining the outcome of legal claims in international affairs.

In conclusion, Elihu Root's quote provides a nuanced understanding of the diverse factors that influence claims of right and the insistence upon obligations in international relations. By referencing treaty stipulations, international law, natural justice, and disputed facts, Root highlights the complex interplay of legal, moral, and factual considerations that shape the legal landscape of international affairs. This quote serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of international legal disputes and the various elements that must be considered in addressing them.