Segunda Enmienda: Control de Armas, Derecho a Portar Armas y Debate Constitucional en Estados Unidos

The second amendment is one of the most controversial arguments in our society today. As the poems of Emily Dickinson, we have to analyze it in a meticulous and mindful way because it could be difficult to understand. With mass murders and terrorism being the norm lately, gun control has been a heated topic of discussion in relation to the second amendment between politicians and amongst regular civilians. Many claim guns kill people. Others argue against that claim and say people with guns kill people. Others may not hold a stance towards this matter; instead, they would rather not comment because of confusion or disinterest. We must reevaluate and consider each other's beliefs in this sensitive theme.

The Meaning of the "Free State"

The view on "free state" is defined as any organized sovereign government. Before the revolution, colonial militias of each province formed a union of 13 colonies to retaliate against tyranny by the British Crown. Colonial militias were patriots who, like most regular settlers, were men of family and farmers, and were not part of any organized army. For this reason, our founding fathers included in the Bill of Rights our right to bear arms for our security as "the people" against federal tyranny.

Constitutional Protections and State Power

The second amendment protects the power of a state to maintain a militia at all times. If the federal government chooses to override a constitutional decision and oppress the votes of states, that itself can be considered tyranny. The second amendment also protects the power of a state and of an individual to arm themselves in any case of physical oppression, through harm or endangerment of the lives of citizens, for personal protection. This amendment also helps to ensure power in the hands of the people versus political power alone.

Understanding the Second Amendment From Multiple Perspectives

The importance of having a "Dickinsonian eye" for this issue is to have a better and more open understanding of what the second amendment is really about from both political views. Garrett Epps mentions in his article, "The 'Spectacularly Unhelpful' Second Amendment": "Who are 'the people'?" (Garrett Epps). While "people" can plainly define any average American citizen, some may not see it that way. Most can agree that not all people are mentally capable of bearing arms, but this should not take away the right of those who maintain a sound life and who have been victimized by crimes against them.