2 amendment Quote by Alexander Hamilton
![“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.” quote by Alexander Hamilton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/86a/alexander-hamilton-619_2-amendment_this-a-state-militia-system-appears-to-m_756387.jpg)
“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.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: The Federalist Papers, No. 23, 1788
Hamilton argues that a militia is the only feasible alternative to a permanent standing army, offering security while limiting potential tyranny.
In simple terms: Militia as a safer alternative to a standing army.
Key Takeaway
Consider the role of citizen forces in modern security.
Themes
defense
politics
citizenry
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- national security planning
- community defense initiatives
- policy debates on military spending
Key Concepts
Republicanism
civil-military relations
Questions to Reflect On
- Can a militia effectively replace a standing army today?
- What safeguards prevent militia abuse?
A Different Perspective
Militia may lack training and coordination compared to professional forces.
![“[W]ar is a question, under our constitution, not of Executive, but of Legislative cognizance. It belongs to Congress to say whether the Nation shall of choice dismiss the olive branch and unfurl the banners of War.” quote by Alexander Hamilton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bd8/alexander-hamilton-619_banner_w-ar-is-a-question-under-our-constitutio_33383.jpg)
![“It is one thing to be subordinate to the laws, and another [for the Executive] to be dependent on the legislative body. The first comports with, the last violates, the fundamental principles of good government; and, whatever may be the forms of the Constitution, unites all power in the same hands.” quote by Alexander Hamilton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/be4/alexander-hamilton-619_body_it-is-one-thing-to-be-subordinate-to-the_129196.jpg)
