Modern America prides itself on having one of the finest, well-equipped militaries the world has ever known. But, if you examine American history, this is contrary to over 100 years of tradition and not what the Founding Fathers envisioned. So how did we get to where we are today and is it in America’s best interest?
A Glance at the Past
The Founding Fathers are famous for arguing against a large standing military. Although European nations all had massive armies and navies that were expensive to maintain, it was something the young nation could not afford. Plus, many early Americans saw those great military forces as the government’s first means of controlling the citizens. Given that we had just found a revolution against government oppression, our early leaders preferred to have a relatively small army and navy supported by local state militias which would only be called to duty when needed, something which would require state approval. Not only did this defer cost, but also provided a sort of check and balance against Federal abuse.
This practice was the standard throughout the first 100 plus years of American history. Following the Revolutionary War, militias were disbanded and the members returned to civilian occupations, even the main Army and Navy were similarly dissolved for a short time but reestablished in a much smaller form. When trouble arose, the militias were called up, and the military quickly swelled in numbers and again disbanded once no longer needed. This practice was followed after each major conflict – War of 1812, Civil War, Spanish-American War and even World War 1; each time, the US called up temporary forces to defeat the threat and once the fighting ceased the troops were sent home.
It wasn’t until the aftermath of World War 2 that a large, permanent military was established primarily due to a predicted need to respond to the Cold War threat. However, historians now question the genuine need for this increase in American military might. Sure, the Soviet threat was real, but many now argue it was not a threat to America as much as to our allies. America was mostly sheltered by geography while our allies were literally on the Soviet doorstep. Some suggest America was convinced to take the lead in the Cold War because it was easier and cheaper for our allies than increasing their military capabilities, many of which had been exhausted by the recent conflict.
Final Remarks
I doubt there is any chance of returning to our early isolationist roots, shrinking our military and withdrawing from world conflict. The last 70 years have made this impossible and have also made the USA the main target of many who see us as the face of democracy. But, it does make you wonder what the Founding Fathers would think of our current situation and whether America might be better off as an observer rather than the leader every time another nation finds themselves in trouble.
Disclaimer: The content in this article is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of US Patriot Tactical.
