Gun culture in the United States

Estimated Household firearm ownership rate by U.S. state in 2016

Gun culture in the United States refers to the behaviors, attitudes, and beliefs surrounding the ownership and use of firearms by private citizens. Gun ownership is deeply rooted in the country’s history and is legally protected by the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution. Firearms in the U.S. are commonly used for self-defense, hunting, and recreational activities.

Gun politics in the United States are highly polarized. Advocates of gun rights, typically aligned with conservative or libertarian views, emphasize the importance of the Second Amendment and oppose gun control. In contrast, those who support stricter gun control, often with liberal perspectives, advocate for more regulations to reduce gun violence. The gun culture in the United States is distinctive among developed nations due to the high number of firearms owned by civilians, generally permissive regulatory environment, and significantly higher levels of gun violence compared to other developed countries.[1]

  1. ^ Fisher, Max (December 15, 2012). "What makes America's gun culture totally unique in the world, in four charts". Washington Post. Washington D.C. Retrieved January 25, 2014.