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American Founding Fathers were not dumb - a lot of them had spent time in the 18th century Europe, which was an interesting place at the time. Full of wars and rebellions. Great for analyzing pros and cons of political systems, awful for an average guy. Keeping the general population armed was a good idea in the context.
What they failed to predict is the identity politics. That being armed or not will become a show of loyalty to your group rather than defense against tyranny. With those needing it the most being the ones to reject it.
The US founding fathers were vehemently against a standing army, because it could be used for exactly this very thing: seizing control from cities and states. That's why they only wanted militias.
You're wrong about the founders not understanding identity politics; I recommend you read through George Washington's farewell address. It's is lengthy, for sure, but it explicitly warns Americans about the danger of unchecked fealty to a political party and the promulgation of a politics of identity versus national interest and unity.
The founders knew our democracy would be repeatedly tested by enemies foreign and domestic (almost like they included that in the Constitution for a reason) they simply hoped we would be educated enough to see when we're being manipulated, and faithful enough to the country's ideals to defend it. We'll see if they're right.
Your second paragraph was considered a feature in the context of the time