Meaning: The quote "These our great natural rights we keep to ourselves; we will not have them tampered with; respecting them we give to you no commission whatsoever" by Caleb Cushing, a prominent American diplomat and lawyer, encapsulates the fundamental concept of natural rights and the protection of individual liberties. Cushing's words reflect the sentiment of many individuals and nations throughout history who have sought to assert and safeguard their inherent rights and freedoms.

In order to understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the context of Caleb Cushing's diplomatic career and the broader historical and philosophical foundations of natural rights. Caleb Cushing served as a diplomat during a crucial period in American history when the nation was expanding its influence and engaging in international diplomacy. As a diplomat, Cushing was involved in negotiations and discussions that centered on issues of sovereignty, individual rights, and national autonomy.

The concept of natural rights, which Cushing refers to in his quote, has its roots in the Enlightenment era and the writings of philosophers such as John Locke, Thomas Hobbes, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Natural rights are considered to be inherent to human beings, not granted by any government or authority, and include rights such as life, liberty, and property. These rights form the basis of modern democratic societies and are enshrined in documents such as the United States Declaration of Independence and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

When Cushing speaks of "keeping to ourselves" and "not having them tampered with," he is emphasizing the importance of protecting these natural rights from infringement or interference by external forces. This assertion reflects a commitment to individual autonomy and the sovereignty of nations, conveying a sense of defiance against any attempts to undermine or violate these fundamental rights.

Moreover, Cushing's statement conveys a firm refusal to delegate the responsibility of upholding natural rights to any external entity. By declaring "respecting them we give to you no commission whatsoever," Cushing is asserting that the protection of these rights is a matter of self-determination and should not be subject to the authority or oversight of others. This assertion aligns with the principles of national sovereignty and self-governance, emphasizing the right of individuals and nations to determine their own destinies and protect their essential liberties.

In contemporary contexts, Cushing's words continue to resonate in discussions surrounding human rights, international law, and the relationship between sovereign states and supranational organizations. The quote underscores the enduring relevance of natural rights as a foundational aspect of individual and collective freedom, serving as a reminder of the ongoing struggles to uphold and defend these rights in the face of internal and external challenges.

In conclusion, Caleb Cushing's quote encapsulates the enduring significance of natural rights and the imperative of safeguarding individual liberties from external interference. His words reflect a commitment to autonomy, sovereignty, and the intrinsic rights of individuals and nations, resonating with the broader historical and philosophical discourse on natural rights. By elucidating the importance of preserving these rights and rejecting external commission, Cushing's quote underscores the enduring relevance of natural rights as a cornerstone of freedom and self-determination.