The historical figure known for the concept of "natural rights" is John Locke. An influential English philosopher during the 17th century, Locke proposed that individuals possess inherent rights, such as life, liberty, and property, which are not granted by governments but are inalienable. His ideas significantly influenced Enlightenment thinkers and the development of modern democratic thought, including the principles underlying the American Declaration of Independence. Locke's philosophy emphasized the importance of government as a protector of these rights, arguing that any government failing to do so could be justly overthrown.