Watch In Search of the Second Amendment

In Search of the Second Amendment is a documentary movie from 2006 that explores the history and interpretation of the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution. The movie features interviews with prominent legal scholars and influential figures in the gun rights movement, including Randy E. Barnett and David Hardy. The movie begins by tracing the origins of the Second Amendment, which was added to the Constitution in 1791 along with the other amendments in the Bill of Rights. The amendment reads: "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." The film explores the various interpretations of the Second Amendment over time, ranging from the militia-centered view of the Founding Fathers to the individual right to bear arms interpretation emphasized by modern gun rights advocates.

To explore the historical context in which the Second Amendment was drafted, the movie looks at the role of militias in the American Revolution and the debates about state vs. federal power that shaped the early years of the United States. Legal scholars featured in the film explain how the Supreme Court's interpretation of the Second Amendment has evolved over time, tracing landmark cases such as United States v. Miller (1939) and District of Columbia v. Heller (2008).

In Search of the Second Amendment also delves into contemporary debates about gun rights and gun control, and examines the historical, legal, and philosophical arguments on both sides of this contentious issue. The movie features footage of rallies and protests by gun rights activists, as well as interviews with opponents of relaxed gun laws. The film also explores the impact of gun violence on American society, and considers the ways in which the interests of gun owners and non-gun owners alike can be reconciled.

Throughout the movie, the legal scholars and advocates interviewed offer their own perspectives on the Second Amendment and its significance. Some argue that the right to bear arms is essential for individual liberty and personal safety, and that past attempts to restrict gun ownership have been ineffective or even counterproductive. Others contend that the Second Amendment was intended to protect state militias, and that any individual right to bear arms should be carefully regulated to prevent violence and protect public safety.

Ultimately, In Search of the Second Amendment offers a comprehensive overview of the legal, historical, and political debates about gun rights in America. The movie provides a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of a complex and divisive issue, and is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the background and implications of the Second Amendment.