What is the purpose of the 2nd Amendment?

The purpose of the 2nd Amendment is to protect the right to keep and bear arms. This amendment, ratified in 1791 as part of the Bill of Rights, explicitly states that "the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." It was intended to ensure that individuals have the ability to possess weapons for personal defense as well as to allow for a well-regulated militia, which was a critical aspect of the early United States' approach to national defense and security. The historical context reflects a concern for self-defense and protection against tyranny, emphasizing the importance placed on individual rights related to firearm ownership.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of individual rights that are protected by various amendments or laws. The right to freedom of speech is protected by the 1st Amendment, peaceful assembly is also safeguarded by the same amendment, and voting rights are outlined primarily in the 15th, 19th, and 26th Amendments, making the understanding of the 2nd Amendment's focus on arms crucial for grasping the overall picture of constitutional rights in the United States.