Question

Which of the following is part of the provisions of the Massachusetts Constitution?

a. Deems "absurd and unnatural" bloodline claims or hereditary titles or office within the government
b. Establishes a right to keep and bear arms for the common defense, while the militia is governed by civil authority.
c. Gives citizens the right to redress their grievances and to obtain swift justice without having to pay for it.
d. All of the choices

Answer 1

The provisions of the Massachusetts Constitution include the right to keep and bear arms for the common defense, reflecting a historical context where this was seen as a natural right for militia service.

Step-by-step explanation:

b. Establishes a right to keep and bear arms for the common defense, while the militia is governed by civil authority.

The Massachusetts Constitution includes a provision for the right to keep and bear arms, primarily for common defense purposes. This was seen as a natural right inherited from English common law, which was in practice before the American Revolution and the drafting of both the federal and state constitutions. The notion of a militia was commonplace before the Civil War, where adult white males were often seen as part of the militia that could be mustered for defense against rebellions or invasions. Moreover, while there was a right to keep and bear arms, some measures were aimed at preventing slaves and their abolitionist allies from acquiring firearms. This reflects a broader historical context where individual liberties such as jury trials, the right to bear arms and religious tolerance were already practiced to some extent within states and then enshrined into law.