The Right to Bear Arms

The Second Amendment safeguards the right of citizens to keep or bear arms.

When it was adopted in 1791, this amendment referred to the right of states to maintain militia for their own security.

In recent years, the right to bear arms has erupted into a controversy that has sometimes divided the nation.

On one hand, there are those who support some kind of gun control in the hope of reducing violence.  On the other hand, opponents of gun control say the amendment allows citizens the right own any guns they choose.

Housing Soldiers
The Third Amendment guarantees the security of the home.  Soldiers may not be stationed in any house unless the owner agrees.  Congress could, however, pass a law during wartime that would allow for this if it were necessary.

This amendment was added because Americans thought it was unfair that the government in Britain forced people to house British soldiers.

Search & Seizure

The Fourth Amendment protects one’s home and property against unreasonable searches and seizures.

Under most circumstances, police officers must obtain a warrant from a judge in order to search someone’s house or other possessions.

On your blog, post 2-3 sentences for each of the following:

1. Describe one argument for and one argument against gun control. What is your opinion on the issue?

2. Do you think it is fair to force people to open their homes to soldiers during wartime? Why or why not?

3. Describe a situation in which the police might be able to obtain a warrant to search a house or a building.