Civic Literacy Practice Test 2026 - Free Civic Literacy Questions and Study Guide

The Constitution grants the power to declare war to Congress, which is the legislative branch of the federal government comprising both the Senate and the House of Representatives. This design reflects the framers' intention to ensure that such a significant decision—entering into war—requires broader consensus rather than being left to a single individual or department.

While the President, as the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, can direct military operations and respond to immediate threats, the formal declaration of war is a responsibility assigned to Congress. This is outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, which explicitly states that Congress has the power "to declare war." Thus, the intent of this constitutional provision is to serve as a check on executive power by requiring legislative approval for military action, thereby promoting democratic accountability and deliberation in matters of war and peace.