This [a state militia system] appears to me the only substitute that can be devised for a standing army, and the best possible security against it, if it should exist.
Interpretation
Hamilton advocates for a state militia as a substitute for a standing army to ensure security and prevent potential tyranny.
In this quote, Alexander Hamilton argues that a system of state militias serves as an essential alternative to a permanent standing army. He suggests that such militias provide the best form of security against the dangers associated with a standing army, which can lead to tyranny and oppression. This reflects his belief in the balance of power and the importance of local control in military affairs.
In practice
During discussions on national defense, one might reference this quote to emphasize the importance of local militias over a permanent army.
When men, engaged in unjustifiable pursuits, are aware that obstructions may come from a quarter which bare apprehension of opposition from doing what they would with eagerness rush into if no such external impediments were to be feared.
The tendency of a national bank is to increase public and private credit. The former gives power to the state, for the protection of its rights and interests: and the latter facilitates and extends the operations of commerce among individuals. Industry is increased, commodities are multiplied, agriculture and manufacturers flourish: and herein consists the true wealth and prosperity of a state.
It's not tyranny we desire; it's a just, limited, federal government.
The Achaeans soon experienced, as often happens, that a victorious and powerful ally is but another name for a master.
The people are turbulent and changing; they seldom judge right or make good decision.
The true principle of a republic is that the people should choose whom they please to govern them. Representation is imperfect, in proportion as the current of popular favor is checked. The great source of free government, popular election, should be perfectly pure, and the most unbounded liberty allowed.
Why is it that, as a culture, we are more comfortable seeing two men holding guns than holding hands?
The most virtuous are those who content themselves with being virtuous without seeking to appear so.
The finest clothing made is a person's own skin, but, of course, society demands something more than this.
I am a Black Feminist. I mean I recognize that my power as well as my primary oppressions come as a result of my blackness as well as my womaness, and therefore my struggles on both of these fronts are inseparable.
Racism is, among other things, the unearned skepticism of one group of humans joined to the unearned sympathy for another.
What's really hurting me, the name Islam is involved, and Muslim is involved and causing trouble and starting hate and violence. ... Islam is not a killer religion. ... Islam means peace, I couldn't just sit home and watch people label Muslims as the reason for this problem.
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