Gun Control - Research Paper Example

Thus, gun control remains an emotive aspect, as on the one hand, there is need for overall citizen safety and welfare; this at the same time providing for the freedom to bear arms as enshrined in the 2nd Amendment (Trotter). As Susan Dudley rightly views, “The right of the people to keep and bear arms in defense of themselves and of the lawful authority of the state shall not be infringed, except that the manner of bearing arms may be regulated by law.?” (39) This not only being her perspective, but an ideal that is off uttermost importance to true patriots of America.

This rights traces its roots to the nation’s founding, when European colonialists settling in the Newfoundland, brought guns for protection and as a means of food provision; protection against the native populations, while food came from hunted game. With the conquest and huge tracks of land in their belonging, the settlers soon discovered the value of having armed men as protection of their new colonies; this against hostile native Indians among other enemies. Hence, the passing of the Massachusetts Bay laws; this requiring all able-bodied men to bear arm through their joining of state militia, with other settlements following suit. (Gold 33).

The American defence against King George’s (3rd ) well armed and disciplined British soldiers, proved too tough even for the aforementioned militia; this necessitating Congress’ establishment of the Continental army. Being led by George Washington, the gun provisions at first proved inadequate, but with the invention of the Colt revolver, being cheaper and firing six times in rapid succession, was to change the above scenario and hence America’s history. By utility of state-of-the-art machinery, in addition to assembly/ industrial production, America soon led the global arena in firearm production.

The colt’s greatness can only be best espoused through a popular Western gun lovers’ saying ‘God created men; Colonel Colt made them equal. (Gold, 34) this said, it is hence vividly clear, as to the great place, guns (firearms) possess in America’s history (Moorhouse 103). Thus, the big question, should America have gun control? This is not an easy question as it pertains to a closely held issue pertinent to its citizen’s wellbeing. As is known, the right to arms is rooted in a need for personal protection (of both life and personal property), and in the armed forces; this as espousing their overall need for establishment, security and maintenance of America’s sovereignty.

This is best espoused by Gold (26): “That the right of the citizens to bear arms, in defence of themselves and the state, shall not be questioned.” Thus, should gun control be enforced? Though as aforementioned, it is the right of American citizens to bear arms, it is also the duty of the Federal government to put in check the availability and possession of firearms. “That a well regulated militia, composed of the body of the people, trained to arms, is the proper, natural and safe defence of a free State; that standing armies, in time of peace, should be avoided as dangerous to liberty; and that in all cases the military should be under strict subordination to, and governed by, the civil power” (Haerens 27).

The above portends to the existent danger