""That the said Constitution shall never be construed to authorize Congress to infringe the just liberty of the press or the rights of conscience; or to prevent the people of the United States who are peaceable citizens from keeping their own arms...""
— Samuel Adams
Samuel Adams, Debates and Proceedings in the Convention of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, at 86-87
Historical Significance
Adams' proposed language for Second Amendment protecting "peaceable citizens"
Context
Massachusetts ratification convention discussions
Context
Massachusetts ratification convention discussions
Historical Significance
Adams’ proposed language for Second Amendment protecting “peaceable citizens”