What does Amendment 2 of the U.S. Constitution protect?

Amendment 2 of the U.S. Constitution protects the right to bear arms. This amendment states, "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." It reflects the Founding Fathers' belief in the importance of self-defense and the potential need for citizens to rise against tyranny. The mention of a "well regulated Militia" is often interpreted as linking the individual right to bear arms with the collective security of the state, but the amendment primarily guarantees that individuals have the right to possess and carry weapons. This aspect has led to extensive discussions regarding firearm regulation and individual rights in contemporary society.