In late-1700s United States, how did influential thinkers (and the people) conceive of the militia referred to in the US Const. 2nd amendment?

by pelsmacker

To clarify and elaborate: Was there philosophical agreement on the nature of the militia? Was it a creature of the federal government, of its state, or of the people? In what sense--and by whom--was it to be "regulated"? Also, if you can answer, what has happened to the militia as an institution and its role in constitutional law concerning individual gun rights? That's a lot--feel free to focus on just one part. Thanks.

uncovered-history

I actually answered an incredibly similar question to this just a few months ago. Why would Thomas Jefferson write in, and founding fathers put their signatures on, the 2nd amendment after Shays rebellion?

feel free to ask any follow ups here and I'll respond.