What does the 2nd Amendment protect?

The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution protects an individual's right to bear arms. This amendment states, "The right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." It is rooted in the historical context of maintaining a well-regulated militia for the security of a free state, which has evolved over time to encompass individual rights to possess firearms for self-defense and other lawful purposes.

The right to bear arms has been the subject of significant legal debate and interpretation, particularly regarding regulations and the extent to which this right can be limited by the government. The Supreme Court has ruled in key cases, such as District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), affirming that the Second Amendment protects an individual's right to own and carry weapons.

Understanding this amendment is important for recognizing its implications in discussions about gun control, personal safety, and the balance of individual rights against government regulation.