What does the Second Amendment protect?

The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution explicitly protects the right to bear arms. Ratified in 1791 as part of the Bill of Rights, it states: "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." This amendment is often cited in discussions about gun ownership and firearm regulations, establishing the basis for individuals to possess and carry weapons for self-defense and other lawful purposes.

Each of the other choices relates to different rights protected by the Constitution but falls outside the scope of the Second Amendment. For example, the right to free speech is protected by the First Amendment, while the right to a speedy trial is outlined in the Sixth Amendment. The right to privacy, though not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, has been inferred from several amendments, mainly regarding personal liberties. Understanding the specific protections offered by each amendment is critical to grasping the broader constitutional framework and individual rights in the United States.