Doctrine of Discovery

The Doctrine of Discovery is a legal and religious principle originating in papal bulls that permitted European powers to seize and colonize lands inhabited by non-Christians, particularly during the Age of Exploration. It was later extended to justify land grabs in the Americas against prior Indigenous presence.

Claims that use this term

• The Doctrine of Discovery originated in papal bulls permitting seizure of non-Christian lands
• The Doctrine of Discovery was legally extended to the Americas after Africa
• The Doctrine of Discovery justified English land grabs against prior Native presence