[El Gato]

Conversely, there were some in the Militia who didn't qualify. Yes, there were exceptions. But I think it's unwise to define the right by the exceptions.

Not just "some", most. As you've pointed out, eligible voters were a minority, even among free white males. But all free white males, of the proper ages, were required to be in the militia, or more properly, they *were* the militia.

It's not an exception at all.

[robertpaulsen]

"As you've pointed out, eligible voters were a minority, even among free white males."

I did point out that eligible voters were a minority of the population, yes. Less than 20%. But I never said eligible voters were a minority among free white males.

If you wish to make that point, feel free to do so. But I would like some references.