Final answer:
In 2015, the company attributed its discontinuation of assault rifle sales to declining customer demand amidst debates on gun violence and gun control.
Step-by-step explanation:
In 2015, the company said its decision to stop selling assault rifles was due to declining customer demand. This decision came against a backdrop of numerous debates and controversies surrounding gun control and gun violence. After repeated mass shootings and growing public pressure, interest groups like the National Rifle Association (NRA) and political discussions have deeply influenced gun policies. Although some states have enacted their own restrictions, such as background checks, federal action has been sporadic. The history of gun control legislation has evolved over time, indicating a complex relationship between individual rights, public safety, and gun accessibility.