The 2nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, guaranteeing a right to bear
arms, is one of the most contentious issues in American politics. The
role firearms should or should not play in society is highly
controversial and almost every candidate for public office will be
questioned on his or her stance on guns. In the 18th century, guns were
even more important. Used in hunting, dueling, crime, self-defense and
the military, they symbolized freedom and the ability to defend it,
masculinity, social standing and (dis)ordered society. Based upon a
variety of sources, this book shows how American society of the 18th
century used guns; thought, talked and fought about them, both in
politics and out.