What, Sir, is the use of a militia? It is to prevent the establishment of a standing army, the bane of liberty. Whenever governments mean to invade the rights and liberties of the people, they always attempt to destroy the militia, in order to raise an army upon their ruins.
Meaning of the quote
The quote explains that a militia is important to prevent a standing army, which can be used by the government to take away the rights and freedoms of the people. Governments often try to destroy the militia in order to create their own army, which they can then use to control the people. The quote suggests that the militia is an important way to protect the people's liberties from a powerful government.
About Elbridge Gerry
Elbridge Gerry was an American Founding Father who served as the fifth Vice President of the United States. He was a vocal opponent of British colonial policy and played a key role in the American Revolution. Gerry is also known for the political practice of gerrymandering, which is named after him.
More quotes from Elbridge Gerry
What, Sir, is the use of a militia? It is to prevent the establishment of a standing army, the bane of liberty. Whenever governments mean to invade the rights and liberties of the people, they always attempt to destroy the militia, in order to raise an army upon their ruins.
vice president of the United States from 1813 to 1814