Some of these responses are indeed humorous. When the 2nd amendment was written, the country had just sucessfully overthrown an oppressive government. This was indeed done by farmers with standard weapons of the era. The intent of the American Founding Fathers is obvious. The public's right to bear arms is to protect the populace from it's government. Check the history of Scotland. Swords were outlawed there in the MIddle Ages so England could impose the King's will with little opposition. People who feel a benign government would never abuse a disarmed populace are deluding themselves. Absolute power corrupts absolutely.