What did the War Powers Act of 1973 aim to do?

The War Powers Act of 1973 was designed specifically to limit the president's ability to engage in military actions without the approval of Congress. This legislation emerged in response to the concerns that had arisen during the Vietnam War, where successive administrations had escalated military involvement without adequate congressional oversight.

The act requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of committing armed forces to military action and limits the deployment of troops to 60 days without a declaration of war or Congressional approval. This requirement sought to restore a balance between the executive and legislative branches regarding the decision to engage in hostilities, ensuring that military actions would involve democratic accountability.

The focus of the War Powers Act was on enhancing legislative control over military actions, making it a significant check on presidential power during a time of increasing public scrutiny over military commitments.