How did the founding fathers view the concept of a standing army?

The Founding Fathers had varying views on the concept of a standing army, but many of them were wary of it due to their experiences under British rule. During the American Revolution, the Continental Army was formed as a response to the need for a military force to fight against the British. However, many of the Founding Fathers were concerned about the power that a standing army could have over the civilian population.

One of the most vocal opponents of a standing army was Thomas Jefferson, who believed that a large military establishment would be a threat to liberty. He argued that a citizen militia was sufficient for the country's defense, and that a standing army could be used to suppress dissent and usurp power. Other Founding Fathers, such as James Madison and Alexander Hamilton, believed that a standing army was necessary for national defense and to protect the country's interests abroad.

Despite these differing views, the Founding Fathers sought to create a system of checks and balances to ensure that the military did not become too powerful. The Constitution gives Congress the power to raise and support armies, but also requires that funding for the military be renewed every two years. Additionally, the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878 limits the use of the military in domestic law enforcement.