It was not just Patrick Henry that shared this sentiment -- also Madison, Jefferson, etc.. Who are the militia? Time and time again the founders reiterated that We The People are the militia -- not the federal government's armies. The right to arms is not only a right, but a duty for defense of oneself and of one's country. Switzerland is a good example -- every able-bodied citizen is armed and trained, and thus, ready to defend the republic. When only the ruling class has arms, say good bye to liberty. And Anon from Reston has his facts wrong -- guns are used in self-defense somewhere around 2 million times a year in America. It is our responsibility to defend ourselves, not to rely on government agents for our protection. Independence and Courage -- two ideals very much lacking in Americans today.