re: #245 Jay C

Also, when the Constitution was written, memories of the disruptions in Massachusetts caused by Shays’ Rebellion were still fresh, and the Framers likely wanted to be sure that there was a clear distinction made between “popular militia” and “armed mob” - and I’m of the opinion that including the term “well-regulated” in the 2A was indeed intended to mean not only “well-equipped/trained/disciplined”, but also “under official authority”.
YMMV.

You raise an interesting question. One that I honestly do not know enough to fully answer (to me).

In terms of current meaning, where “well-regulated” means under state/government organization and discipline. I fully agree with you.

In terms of what the writers fully meant. I do not yet know how, when, or even _if_ they disentangled the philosophy and concept of militia as representatives of the King/Loyalist Government versus that of the Revolutionary/Patriot Govt versus representing other interests.

One thing to consider was that the major experience prior to the American Revolutionary War was in the response to raids by Native Americans and by French combatants coming from Canada.

The organization, rapidity and effectiveness of the Massachusetts’ response at Lexington and Concord was because of experiences against those raids.

Understanding that any conflict is basically a series of screw-ups on both sides. And that even the side that screws up less still often loses. The only certainty is that people usually get hurt in these things.