It would be easy to point to the difference in gun control, but I think that large issues often need to be examined more deeply. Perhaps the difference is in cultural and religious beliefs. Perhaps the difference is in laws and punishment. And perhaps, in the this country, it has to do with the breakdown of family values and the decline of the nucleus family. American believe it is their born right to protect their property and person.
People are scared and want to feel they have control and protection.
People believe the government is reaching too far into their homes and their lives by removing freedoms or rights they view as being inalienable. America was expanded with the western-frontier mentallity. This psychological need to own and protect has kept gun control legislation to a minimum because people will feel helpless, vulnerable, and disadvantaged. No, I don't think the forefathers of this country ever intended for individuals to have hand guns in their possession or homes. I believe that the average law-abiding citizens have a constitutional right to own a firearm in order to protect their person and property.