The Bill of Rights: One of the Greatest Documents of Liberty

On December 15 we celebrate Bill of Rights Day. Learn how James Madison endured a lonely struggle against his fellow Federalists to yield one of the greatest documents of liberty ever written.

by posted on December 15, 2022
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Bill Of Rights American Rifleman

December 15 is now known as "Bill of Rights Day," a day on which we celebrate the first 10 Amendments to the Constitution, which were in place by 1791. However, most freedom-loving Americans that rest on these rights are unaware of the deliberations that went into finalizing the language for what we now know as the Second Amendment. In fact, if it weren't for the persistence of Founding Father James Madison, it might not have been able to stand the test of time and its numerous challenges. 

As NRA's American Rifleman published in its March 1991 issue, "Madison's lonely struggle, against indifferent opposition, yielded one of the greatest documents of liberty ever written. Madison's prediction that the Amendments "will have a salutary tendency" has echoed through the centuries. To fully appreciate the negotiation of semantics that went into guarding our cherished right—granted to us by our Creator, and protected today by your NRA—read the full story

 

 

 

Latest

Deering Car Kit Istock 2263789056
Deering Car Kit Istock 2263789056

What’s In Your Car Kit?

Do you have an emergency kit in your car? You should—but what should it include?

 

The Armed Citizen® Reload July 10, 2026

Get off my lawn—and my man! A woman defended her husband who suddenly came under attack on their property.

Commemorative Daisy Red Ryders Celebrate America's 250th

Choose from one of two limited-edition carbine lever-actions or a CO2-powered BB revolver.

Is Technology Ruining Hunting?

All the high-tech devices at our disposal have changed how we hunt. But has it been for the better?

Beretta USA Rolls Out Limited-Edition State Baseball Hat Collection Supporting Folds of Honor

The collection celebrates America's semiquincentennial while supporting the families of fallen or disabled service members and first responders.

NRA National Youth Hunter Education Challenge Returns to Bentonville

Open to youth ages 8 to 18, YHEC brings together individuals and teams from across the country to compete in eight challenging events.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.