What was a primary concern regarding a standing national army during peacetime?

A primary concern regarding a standing national army during peacetime is its potential to threaten individual liberties. Historically, many political theorists and leaders have expressed apprehension that a large and permanent military force could be used to suppress dissent, enforce tyranny, or infringe upon personal freedoms. The presence of a standing army might lead to the increased possibility of government overreach, as the military could be utilized to maintain control over the populace rather than being solely focused on protecting the nation. This fear was particularly relevant during the founding period of the United States, where past experiences with British colonial rule had made the founders wary of any centralized authority that could wield military power against its own citizens.

In contrast, concerns about generating too much revenue, distractions from agriculture, or leading to international conflict, while valid issues in various contexts, do not encompass the fundamental worries expressed about a standing army's impact on the rights and freedoms of individuals within the nation. Therefore, the potential infringement on personal liberties stands out as the most significant issue surrounding peacetime national military forces.