What does the Second Amendment protect?

The Second Amendment protects the right of individuals to keep and bear arms. This amendment, ratified in 1791, is part of the Bill of Rights and has been interpreted to affirm the right of citizens to possess weapons for self-defense and other lawful purposes. The historical context for this amendment reflects the Founding Fathers' concerns about the need for a well-regulated militia and the protection of individual liberties against potential tyranny.

The Second Amendment has been the subject of much legal debate and interpretation, particularly regarding its scope and limitations. It establishes a constitutional guarantee that underscores the importance of personal security and the ability of citizens to defend themselves. This right has been affirmed in various Supreme Court rulings, reinforcing its significance in American law and society.