Guns in America

One of the major topics in America today is gun control. We have had many tragedies involving guns, and many innocent people have gotten hurt or lost their lives. In 2013, roughly 23,381 people have died from the misuse of guns. There have also been 16 mass shootings where four or more people were killed other than the shooter. Many citizens, and members of Congress believe that guns should be banned, and that everyone should give up the guns they own. Gun violence has always been occurring in the United States since the earliest of times, and it is senseless, and very unnecessary. Every day, someone or a group of people are shot and killed or injured by a gun. Gun makers, gun dealers, and our government should work together to develop laws, and necessary criteria that individuals must meet to purchase a gun or guns. Too many people are using guns for the wrong reasons. Gun violence has always been occurring in the United States. We have lost so many people, and others have been injured because of the use of guns. Gun possession in America dates back to the earliest settlements, in Jamestown and Plymouth. The settlers used guns for hunting, and to protect their families and colonies. “Yet guns were relatively rare in those nascent colonies, and seldom associated with interpersonal violence” (Spizter, “Gun Violence and Gun Control”). During the 18th century through the 21st century, guns have become more popular with the American people. Gun manufactures became more popular, along with their guns they produce. For the first time, during in the Progressive era, the first gun control laws were pushed, but did not pass. During the 1920's many things became illegal, such as alcohol, and guns. Many gangs formed during this time, the most famous, Al Capone was the leader of the largest gang in Chicago, Illinois. After the Prohibition, “No new federal gun control laws were pasted until 1968” (Spizter, “Gun Violence and Gun Control”). Since 1968, many people have been