War Powers Clause

Article I, Section 8, Clause 11 of the United States Constitution, sometimes referred to as the War Powers Clause, vests in the Congress the power to declare war, in the following wording:

To declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning Captures on Land and Water;

A number of wars have been declared under the United States Constitution, although there is some controversy as to the exact number, as the Constitution does not specify the form of such a declaration.

Read more about War Powers Clause:  History and Usage, Constitutional Convention Debate, Supreme Court Cases, Other Court Cases

Famous quotes containing the words war, powers and/or clause:

    Haven’t you heard, though,
    About the ships where war has found them out
    At sea, about the towns where war has come
    Through opening clouds at night with droning speed
    Further o’erhead than all but stars and angels
    And children in the ships and in the towns?
    Robert Frost (1874–1963)

    Great abilites are not requisite for an Historian; for in historical composition, all the greatest powers of the human mind are quiescent. He has facts ready to his hand; so there is no exercise of invention. Imagination is not required in any degree; only about as much as is used in the lowest kinds of poetry. Some penetration, accuracy, and colouring, will fit a man for the task, if he can give the application which is necessary.
    Samuel Johnson (1709–1784)

    Long ago I added to the true old adage of “What is everybody’s business is nobody’s business,” another clause which, I think, more than any other principle has served to influence my actions in life. That is, What is nobody’s business is my business.
    Clara Barton (1821–1912)