For defense against invasion their number is as nothing, nor is it conceived needful or safe that a standing army should be kept up in time of peace for that purpose.
Thomas Jefferson: “For defense against invasion their number is as nothing, nor is it conceived needful or safe that a standing army should…”
Editor's note · Context
Jefferson argues against maintaining a standing army in peacetime, suggesting it is unnecessary for defense.
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When the documents concerning the relations between the United States and Great Britain were laid before Congress at the commencement of the session, the answer of Mr. Pinkney to the letter of Mr. Canning had not been received.
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