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Gun Control in Old East Germany
Grossman, Victor
http://www.counterpunch.org/2018/03/28/gun-control-in-old-east-german/Date Written: 2018-03-28 Publisher: CounterPunch Year Published: 2018 Resource Type: Article Cx Number: CX22184 In Communist-run East Germany weapons and ammunition were strictly controlled. Rifles, though privately-owned, were locked up at the hunting clubs, usually connected with the forest rangers' home and station. Abstract: - Excerpt: Corresponding rules were in force for shooting clubs. Schooling and licenses were required, weapons were kept not at home but at the clubs, ammunition was apportioned and had to be accounted for. Yes, these were indeed restrictions on freedom, and most likely had an explanation not only in terms of forestry or sports but also politically, with no unauthorized weapons in possibly rebellious hands. This recalls, in reverse, the reasons why some Americans oppose any controls or limitations even on assault weapons, which are certainly not bought for hunting or sport or to protect against robbers. When some NRA-fans raise posters proclaiming that "AR-15's EMPOWER the people" we can easily guess what kind of people are meant and what kind of power. No, guns are not only for stags, pheasants or shooting range targets and for people in official uniforms. Subject Headings |