The use of private arms for self-defense accords was supported by the esteemed legal commentator [[Sir William Blackstone]], which influenced thinking in the American colonies. He wrote that the people's right to arms was auxiliary to the natural right of self-preservation.<ref>See WILLIAM BLACKSTONE, 1 COMMENTARIES *136, *139.</ref> | The use of private arms for self-defense accords was supported by the esteemed legal commentator [[Sir William Blackstone]], which influenced thinking in the American colonies. He wrote that the people's right to arms was auxiliary to the natural right of self-preservation.<ref>See WILLIAM BLACKSTONE, 1 COMMENTARIES *136, *139.</ref> |