The Terrifying Rise of Gun Violence in the United States

 by Isobel F

How would you feel if the person next to you had a deadly weapon on them, and you didn’t even know.

Terrified.

For millions in the United States this is a reality of everyday life. Millions live in fear for their lives, including school children.

How many Guns?

In the United States there are an estimated 393 million firearms owned by civilians, a staggering 46% of the global total. This means that for every 100 people there are 120.5 guns.

Gun deaths are on the rise

Since the Covid-19 pandemic mass shootings have been on the rise. In 2019 there were 417 mass shootings compared to a horrendous 690 in 2021.

In 2021 alone over 48,000 people died in the US due to Gun inflicted injuries. An increase of over 10,000 from the 2019 total.

Why are they on the rise?

One possible reason for the increase in gun violence is the increase in gun sales. In 2020, there was a 65% increase in the sales of firearms in the US. The John Hopkins centre for Gun Violence Solutions suggests that people feel that guns make them safer especially in uncertain times, such as the Covid-19 pandemic. People buy guns to counter their fear created by unrest leading to a vicious cycle of gun violence.  Another reason for the rise in gun violence is the rise of emotional issues. A report published by the US Secret Service, found that 93% of mass casualty attackers were facing personal issues prior to the attack.

Why is it hard to legislate against firearms?

It is extremely hard to legislate against guns because the Pro-gun lobby, in particular the National Rifle Association (NRA), is extremely well funded, actively promotes gun ownership and is actively hostile to politicians who support gun control. As well as this, the 2nd amendment is “the right to keep and bear arms”. This is used by the pro-gun lobby to defend keeping guns.  

Gun Violence is Spreading?

The United States is not the only country to see a rise in gun violence. Last year, within the space of two days, Serbia witnessed two tragic mass shootings both killing 8 people. These events shook the country. Just 4 days before Christmas, 14 killed and 22 injured, in a mass shooting in Prague.

Whilst the future may seem bleak, there is a chance to save thousands of lives. One seemingly obvious solution is to ban assault weapons, however this faces a lot of backlash from right-wing republicans. Another solution is by creating legislation to make buying guns harder and making people safer. However, whilst many states are moving towards new legislation to make it safer, some are moving further away from this legislation and making society more dangerous. By joining anti-gun groups such as March for our Lives and campaigning against gun violence. We can only begin to solve gun violence when we start working together.