The United States has long been known for its gun culture, but in recent years, the prevalence of firearms has increased significantly. According to the Pew Research Center, the number of Americans who own guns has risen from 25 percent in 1999 to 37 percent in 2017. This rise in gun ownership has been accompanied by a corresponding increase in gun violence, with the number of mass shootings in the US more than doubling since 2011.
The rise in gun ownership can be attributed to a number of factors. One of the most significant is the proliferation of gun shows and online gun sales, which have made it easier for people to purchase firearms without undergoing a background check. Additionally, the National Rifle Association (NRA) has been a major proponent of gun rights, advocating for looser gun laws and opposing any attempts to restrict access to firearms.
The rise in gun culture has had a number of consequences. For one, it has led to an increase in gun-related deaths, with the number of gun deaths in the US surpassing 40,000 in 2017. Additionally, the prevalence of firearms has made it easier for criminals to obtain guns, leading to an increase in gun-related crime.
The rise in gun culture has also had a significant impact on the political landscape. Gun rights have become a major issue in US politics, with the NRA playing a major role in influencing the outcome of elections. Additionally, the issue of gun control has become increasingly divisive, with Democrats and Republicans often taking opposing positions on the issue.
The rise in gun culture has had a profound effect on the US, and it is unlikely to abate anytime soon. While there have been some attempts to address the issue, such as the passage of the Brady Bill in 1993, the prevalence of firearms in the US remains high. Until the issue of gun control is addressed in a meaningful way, the US will continue to grapple with the consequences of its gun culture.