Gun control supporters should learn from history

To the Editor:

In 1929, the Soviet Union established gun control. From 1929 to 1953, about 20 million dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

In 1911, Turkey established gun control. From 1915 to 1917, 1.5 million Armenians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

Germany established gun control in 1938 and from 1939 to 1945, a total of 13 million Jews and others who were unable to defend themselves were rounded up and exterminated.

China established gun control in 1935. From 1948 to 1952, 20 million political dissidents, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

Guatemala established gun control in 1964. From 1964 to 1981, 100,000 Mayan Indians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

Uganda established gun control in 1970. From 1971 to 1979, 300,000 Christians, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

Cambodia established gun control in 1956. From 1975 to 1977, 1 million educated people, unable to defend themselves, were rounded up and exterminated.

Defenseless people rounded up and exterminated in the 20th century because of gun control equal 56 million.

Guns in the hands of honest citizens save lives and property. And yes, gun control laws adversely effect only the law-abiding citizens. Take note, my fellow Americans, before it’s too late. The next time someone talks in favor of gun control, please remind them of this history lesson. With guns, we are “citizens.” Without them, we are “subjects.”

During World War II the Japanese decided not to invade America because they knew most Americans were armed.

If you value your freedom, please remember and speak of the horrors of letting tyrants go unopposed. The purpose of fighting is to win.

There is no possible victory in defense. The sword is more important than the shield, and skill is more important than either.

Switzerland issues every adult they train a battle rifle or pistol to keep at home. Switzerland has the lowest gun-related crime rate of any civilized nation.

It’s a no brainer. Don’t let our government waste millions of our tax dollars in an effort to make all law-abiding citizens an easy target. I am a firm believer in the Second Amendment. Learn from history.

Tyson Mattila

Ironwood