Read the following excerpt from Federalist #3 by John Jay. The number of wars which have happened or will happen in the world will always be found to be in proportion to the number and weight of the causes, whether REAL or PRETENDED, which PROVOKE or INVITE them. If this remark be just, it becomes useful to inquire whether so many JUST causes of war are likely to be given by UNITED AMERICA as by DISUNITED America; for if it should turn out that United America will probably give the fewest, then it will follow that in this respect the Union tends most to preserve the people in a state of peace with other nations.

Which of the following best explains John Jay’s position on maintaining a state of peace with other nations?

A. By going to war at every opportunity, America will enjoy a reputation of being strong and prosperous to the rest of the world.
B. By maintaining strong state governments and militias, Americans are more likely to protect themselves from invasion.
C. By keeping America united under a strong national government, Americans are more likely to have safe and peaceful lives.
D. By staying isolated from the rest of the world, Americans will enjoy peace regardless of whether America is unified.