Important Gun Legislation

Black Codes

Nov 22, 1865

Several southern states pass "black codes" to control newly-emancipated slaves. Some prohibit blackpeople from possessing firearms.

NRA is Founded

Nov 17, 1871

Union Army officers Col. William C. Church and Gen. George Wingate found the National RifleAssociation (NRA) to "promote and encourage rifle shooting on a scientific basis."

The War Revenue Act

Oct 3, 1919

The War Revenue Act is enacted to impose a manufacturer's tax on firearms and ammunition.

The Federal Firearms Act

Jun 26, 1938

The Federal Firearms Act requires gun sellers to obtain a Federal FirearmsLicense and to maintain records of the names and addresses of gunpurchasers. Gun sales to convicted felons are prohibited.

ATF is Founded

Jul 1, 1972

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) is formed as a separate law enforcement organization within the United States Department of Justice.

NCCH/HCI is Founded

Jun 14, 1974

Dr. Mark Borinsky, a victim of gun violence, establishes the NationalCouncil to Control Handguns (NCCH).

CPHV is Founded

Mar 13, 1983

• The Center to Prevent Handgun Violence (CPHV) is founded as a sister organization to Handgun Control, Inc. (HCI).

Toy Gun Laws

Mar 22, 1988

• A new federal law is enacted that requires toy guns that look real to have bright orange plugs fixed in the barrels.

Gun-Free School Zones Act

May 21, 1990

• The Gun-Free School Zones Act, enacted as section 1702 of the Crime Control Act, makes it a crime to possess or discharge a firearm within 1000 feet of a school.

Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act

Nov 3, 1994

• The Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 bans the sale, manufacture, importation and possession of specific types of assault weapons for civilian use.