Original Author Alexander Hamilton
Will a national government with a standing army become dangerous or too powerful?
A country sometimes needs soldiers who are always ready because emergencies happen suddenly and relief cannot wait for soldiers to be trained. The country must always be prepared. Having trained forces at the ready is important.
A militia is a group of regular citizens who can become soldiers when needed. Militias are useful, but they have limits. They are not always trained well or ready right away. They may not be organized like a real army nor are they able to respond quickly to emergencies. Militias alone cannot fully protect the country.
A standing army is needed for real protection. It is not as dangerous as some people believe because: It is controlled by the government and laws, and it can be kept small and organized. People choose their leaders through elections, and with rules in place, it does not automatically threaten freedom.
Some people think standing armies could take away freedom. I think not. The country is large and hard to control by force. Citizens and state governments still have power. The army depends on the government and people, and laws limit how it can be used. So, it is not easy for it to become dangerous on its own.
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