Rome parallels are interesting and relevant, but the women stuff could use sources for a more precise and proportional perspective. The Roman Empire is the preeminent example of leftist indulgence gradually dragging down civilization.

Innate human rights were a gradual build up. Laozi formulated much of it early on in the Orient, but I'm not an expert on far Eastern culture so I make no further claim there. Christianity was very important to the idea natural rights; I abhor the capital-a Atheists that lack the wisdom to not take enlightenment for granted.