Joel Barlow — American Poet born on March 24, 1754, died on December 24, 1812

Joel Barlow was an American poet, diplomat, and politician. In politics, he supported the French Revolution and was an ardent Jeffersonian... (wikipedia)

A habitual disuse of physical forces totally destroys the moral; and men lose at once the power of protecting themselves, and of discerning the cause of their oppression.
How could you fear a dearth? Have not mankind tho' slain by millions, millions left behind?
There are many advantages in their being accustomed to the use of arms, and no possible disadvantage.
It is because the people are citizens that they are with safety armed.