The right of American citizens to keep and bear arms comes from the second amendment to the Constitution, and states "A well regulated Militia being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms shall not be infringed." ("Bill of rights," 2011) Within this one amendment our founding fathers could not know the future trouble and debates that would arise. Numerous laws and regulations at every level of government have arisen in the last half century.
As people find more ways with which to commit crimes using guns. Governments find more ways to regulate their purchase and use. Two of the biggest changes came from the assassination of President Kennedy with the enactment of the "Gun Control Act of 1968. Then the attempted assassination of President Reagan in 1981 led to the "Brady Bill" signed into law in 1993." ("Brady background checks," 2011 )
As the debate rages on today over the second amendment and its intent. People find themselves with many opinions to consider. A statement made by many advocates of the second amendment is laws do not prevent criminals from getting and using guns. They only prevent those who follow the law from owning guns. As more information is uncovered about the wide range of laws in existence there may be credence given to that sentiment.
Bill of rights transcript. (2011, February). Retrieved from http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/bill_of_rights_transcript.html
Brady background checks the brady law. (2011, February). Retrieved from http://www.bradycampaign.org/legislation/backgroundchecks/bradylaw
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