Historically, gun ownership has always held an important place in America culture. Today, Americans own more than 360 million guns, and many view firearms as a symbol of self-reliance and a critical defense against the threat of goverment tyranny. Others, however, are concerned about the high rate of gun violence in the United States, particularly the rising number of mass shootings and school shootings. Americans are deeply divided over the best response to the issue of gun control.