Which amendment provides the right to bear arms?

The Second Amendment is the one that specifically provides the right to bear arms. Ratified in 1791, 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." This establishes an individual’s right to possess weapons for self-defense and other lawful purposes.

The context of this amendment is important as it has significantly influenced American legal debates about gun control and personal liberties. Thus, it serves as a cornerstone of the argument regarding individual rights related to firearms. Understanding the Second Amendment is essential for discussions regarding the balance between individual liberties and public safety within the framework of U.S. law.