What was the significance of District of Columbia v. Heller?

The case of District of Columbia v. Heller is significant because it affirmed the individual right to possess firearms for lawful purposes, particularly for self-defense within the home. This landmark Supreme Court decision clarified that the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects an individual's right to keep and bear arms, independent of any militia service. The Court struck down a Washington D.C. law that effectively banned handgun ownership and mandated that firearms in the home be nonfunctional, emphasizing that the right is not solely tied to service in a militia but is an individual right that can be exercised for personal protection and other lawful activities.

This ruling was foundational in shaping the understanding of gun rights in America, leading to further discussions and legal battles around firearm registration, ownership, and regulation at both state and federal levels. It also underscored the constitutional protection individuals have in possession of firearms for self-defense, thus setting a precedent for future cases and laws related to gun ownership.