Michael Beschloss chronicles American 'Presidents of War'

The video explores the history of U.S. presidents' decisions to go to war, highlighting instances where wars were initiated based on false pretenses. It discusses the founders' concerns about presidential power in war decisions and how modern presidents have circumvented these checks. The character of presidents like Abraham Lincoln and Lyndon Johnson is examined, particularly Johnson's prevention of nuclear escalation in Vietnam. The video concludes with reflections on the founders' vision and the immense power of the modern presidency.

Which president is mentioned as having contrived an attack to justify a war with Mexico?

• Lyndon Johnson

• Abraham Lincoln

• William McKinley

• James Polk

What was the primary concern of the founding fathers regarding presidential power?

• Presidents losing wars

• Presidents making economic decisions

• Presidents declaring war without Congress

• Presidents becoming too popular

Which president is noted for building a cemetery to witness the consequences of war?

• Franklin D. Roosevelt

• Abraham Lincoln

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

What significant action did Lyndon Johnson take regarding nuclear weapons in Vietnam?

• He deployed them

• He prevented their deployment

• He negotiated their removal

• He used them in battle

What is a key quality Americans should look for in a president regarding war decisions?

• Wealth

• Character

• Charisma

• Popularity

What is the main lesson from past conflicts regarding war declarations?

• Wars should be quick

• Congress should be involved

• Presidents should act alone

• Military should decide

What power of the presidency were the founders particularly concerned about?

• Nuclear power

• Diplomatic power

• Military power

• Economic power