The Second Amendment Explained

The 2nd Amendment is part of the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution. It protects the right of people to own and carry firearms.

"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."

Who Does the Second Amendment Protect?

The 2nd Amendment protects people who are legally allowed to own firearms in the United States.

What Does the Second Amendment Protect?

The 2nd Amendment protects the right to own and carry firearms for:

Includes:

1. Self-defense
2. Defending the home
3. Hunting
4. Target shooting
5. Shooting sports

The 2nd Amendment does not eliminate all gun laws.

Includes:

1. Background checks
2. Laws that keep some people from owning firearms
3. Rules about where firearms can be carried
4. Rules covering certain firearms and firearm accessories

How Does the Second Amendment Protect People?

The 2nd Amendment prevents the government from taking away the right to own and carry firearms except as allowed under the law.

It does not protect every use of a firearm.

Includes:

1. Using a firearm while committing a crime.
2. Owning a firearm when the law does not allow it.
3. Carrying a firearm into places where firearms are not allowed by law.
4. Using a firearm to threaten or harm another person in a way that breaks the law.

Where Does the Second Amendment Apply?

The 2nd Amendment applies to applies throughout the United States in federal, state, and local governments.

It does not apply to rules created by private property owners.

1. Private businesses
2. Private employers
3. Private schools
4. Private organizations
5. Private homes

When Was the Second Amendment Approved?

The 2nd Amendment was approved on December 15, 1791, as part of the Bill of Rights.

After the American Revolution, many Americans believed people should have the right to own firearms to help defend themselves, their communities, and the new nation.

The American Revolution to the U.S. Constitution Explained

Learn how the American Revolution led to the U.S. Constitution with a simple timeline explaining the events that shaped the nation.

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