"Provide for the common defense" means that the government, specifically Congress, has the responsibility and power to protect the nation and its people from external threats and attacks. This includes raising and supporting military forces, funding defense efforts through taxation, and ensuring national security through preparedness and alliances. The phrase appears in the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution and is a key purpose of the federal government, emphasizing collective security and defense as fundamental to the union
. Congress’s power to provide for the common defense includes:
- Laying and collecting taxes to fund the military and defense operations
- Raising and supporting an Army and Navy, and making rules for the military
- Strengthening alliances and partnerships with other nations for mutual security
- Investing in military readiness, training, and advanced technology to deter and defeat threats
Overall, providing for the common defense ensures that the United States maintains a strong, prepared military force capable of defending the country and its interests against any aggression or threat
