A Brief History of the NRA
History of the NRA and Gun Control in America
Formation and Early Years of the NRA
- The National Rifle Association (NRA) was founded in 1871 by Union Officers post-Civil War, aiming to improve marksmanship among young men.
- By 1903, the NRA began promoting shooting as a sport at colleges and established a summer youth camp.
Political Involvement and Legislative Actions
- During World War I, the NRA assisted in arming and training civilians; before WWII, it offered military ranges for marksmanship courses.
- Following President Kennedy's assassination in 1963, Congress attempted to regulate gun sales through legislation that faced opposition from the NRA.
Shifts in Organizational Focus
- A divide emerged within the NRA during the 1970s between members focused on hunting/training versus those advocating for strict Second Amendment rights.
- In 1980, the NRA endorsed Ronald Reagan for president; Reagan later addressed gun control issues after surviving an assassination attempt.
Influence and Controversies
- Despite growing membership, including aggressive recruitment efforts in the mid-1980s, Congress passed the Brady Act requiring background checks against NRA objections.
- The expiration of the assault weapons ban in 2004 marked a significant moment for gun rights advocates amid rising firearm ownership.
Recent Developments and Public Response
- Following mass shootings like Sandy Hook Elementary School's tragedy in 2012, public sentiment shifted towards supporting stricter gun control measures. President Obama called for reflection among NRA members regarding their stance on firearms.