Date

5-23-2025

Department

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in History (PhD)

Chair

John T. Broom

Keywords

war powers resolution, executive overreach, WPR, 1973

Disciplines

History

Abstract

Governmental policies, such as the War Powers Resolution (WPR) of 1973, are comprehensive legislative measures designed to address recurring issues through thorough analysis rather than hasty responses. The WPR emerged from a need to balance power between the executive and legislative branches, particularly in the wake of the Vietnam War. Passed over President Nixon's veto, the WPR mandates that the president consults Congress before deploying U.S. armed forces into situations involving imminent hostilities, requiring this consultation within 48 hours of military action. If troops are deployed, their involvement can last 60 days, extendable to 90 days, unless Congress either approves the action or declares war.

Despite its original intent, the War Powers Resolution (WPR) has faced significant criticism due to its vague language, which has made enforcement difficult and led to varying interpretations over time. For example, Section 5 outlines a procedure for troop withdrawal, but it fails to clearly define the specific conditions that would trigger its provisions. This lack of clarity weakens the effectiveness of the checks and balances it was meant to establish, raising doubts about the practicality and reliability of the WPR in real-world situations.

The research question, How has the War Powers Resolution fulfilled its purpose? captures the heart of the ongoing debate about the law’s limitations. This paper argues that the WPR is unfit for three key reasons: first, the complexities of modern foreign relations, which make it difficult to apply the resolution in today's globalized world; second, the challenges arising from the U.S.'s role as a member of the United Nations and its obligations to international peacekeeping; and third, the changing nature of conflict, where wars are no longer simply fought between nations but involve ideological battles and militant groups. The research also asks: In what ways has the War Powers Resolution impacted the ability for Congress to curb executive overreach, and how has its implementation contributed to increased reliance on global geopolitical organizations while fostering a stronger imperial presidency and an expanded U.S. military presence worldwide?

The evolution of U.S. foreign relations post-World War II, driven by rapid information dissemination through media, has significantly influenced policymaking. As Congress has established institutions like the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency to enhance oversight, it highlights a growing recognition that policies without robust bureaucratic support are likely to fail. Despite scholarly interest, a clear understanding of congressional influence on foreign policy remains elusive, as demonstrated by ongoing debates about the WPR's effectiveness.

In essence, the WPR represents a critical attempt to define the relationship between government actions in military affairs and the role of Congress, yet it reveals ongoing challenges i

Download

Included in

History Commons

Share

COinS