Understanding the Decline of American Rights

The concept of rights within a democratic society encapsulates the freedoms and entitlements afforded to its citizens. However, in recent decades, America has experienced a notable erosion of these essential rights. This article explores some of the rights that have been lost, how they were taken away, and the implications for the future.

1. The Right to Bear Arms

One of the most contentious issues in contemporary American politics involves the right to bear arms. Despite the Second Amendment, which guarantees the citizens' right to keep and bear arms, this right has been significantly curtailed. A major factor in this erosion is the blind acceptance by many citizens, leading to a lack of resistance against government infringements. This phenomenon is further exacerbated by the control of the education system, which can instill a sense of governmental authority over individual rights.

Many argue that the right to bear arms has been diminished due to the seemingly endless array of gun control laws and restrictions. For instance, the proliferation of background checks, restrictions on certain types of firearms, and limitations on where and when firearms can be carried have all chipped away at the original intent of the Second Amendment. Additionally, the shift from perceive rights to paper rights (where the right exists only on paper and not in reality) has been a significant issue.

2. The Right to Own and Keep Gold Bullion

A lesser-known but equally significant right that has been lost is the freedom to own and keep gold bullion. Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) enacted a comprehensive gold seizure in 1933, compelling American citizens to turn in their gold at a fixed rate and then pay them back in paper money. The following year, the price of gold was raised, rendering the citizens' gold effectively worthless and leading to the confiscation of their financial assets.

This action by FDR is often considered the 'greatest gold heist in American history.' The government effectively stole over 80% of the nation's gold reserves from its citizens, which not only stripped them of their financial security but also set a precedent for government overreach and disregard for individual property rights. It is noteworthy that for over half a century, from 1933 until 1973, Americans were prohibited from holding gold bullion, further emphasizing the erosion of this fundamental right.

3. The Lack of Value for Rights

The decline in American rights can be attributed in part to the citizens' lack of value for their own rights. Those who willingly surrendered their rights often believe that these rights still exist, even when they do not. This delusion persists among gun control supporters and those who, despite having more firearms than ever before, still feel that their rights have been taken away. Such a mindset aligns with the notion that if citizens are complacent and accept governmental authority without resistance, these rights will naturally erode over time.

Conclusion

The loss of essential rights in the United States is a complex issue that involves a myriad of factors, including governmental overreach, societal complacency, and the control of education. Understanding these issues is crucial for any informed citizen seeking to protect and uphold the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution. As the rights of one generation erode, future generations stand to inherit a society with diminished freedoms and heightened government control.