Congressional Powers and Responsibilities

Lesson 4 focuses on the powers of the legislative branch, particularly Congress's authority to declare and end wars. The lesson explains the framers' intent to limit presidential power by requiring congressional approval for war declarations. It also covers the system of checks and balances, highlighting Congress's role in approving treaties and ending wars. Historical examples, such as the Pearl Harbor incident, illustrate these concepts. The lesson concludes with a reflection on the importance of legislative control over war decisions.

What is the main focus of lesson 4 in the legislative branch series?

• The judicial system

• The history of Congress

• The powers of the legislative branch

• The role of the President

What is the primary power of Congress discussed in this lesson?

• To declare war

• To make laws

• To veto bills

• To appoint judges

Why did the founders limit the President's power to declare war?

• To allow the President to act independently

• To give more power to the military

• To prevent a powerful central government

• To ensure quick military action

What must happen before the President can use the military in a foreign conflict?

• The Supreme Court must agree

• The President must issue an executive order

• Congress must declare war

• The military must approve

What historical event is used as an example of Congress declaring war?

• The Vietnam War

• The Korean War

• The bombing of Pearl Harbor

• The Gulf War

Who has the power to officially end a war?

• The United Nations

• Congress

• The Supreme Court

• The President

What role does Congress play in treaty approval?

• They negotiate treaties

• They can approve or reject treaties

• They have no role in treaties

• They enforce treaties

What happens if the Senate disagrees with a treaty proposed by the President?

• The treaty becomes null and void

• The treaty is sent to the Supreme Court

• The treaty is automatically approved

• The treaty is renegotiated

Why did the framers assign the power to declare war to Congress?

• To ensure a quick decision-making process

• To involve the representatives of the people

• To avoid international conflicts

• To give the President more power

What is the significance of Congress's power to declare war?

• It gives the President full control

• It limits the military's power

• It ensures a democratic decision-making process

• It allows for immediate military action