Article 1 - The Legislative Branch

Source:

Congress Declares War on Mexico May 13, 1846. May 13, 2010

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0510/37146.html

Constitutional Connection:

Article 1, Legislative Branch, Section 8, Clause 11

(Clause 1) "The Congress shall have Power..."
(Clause 11) "To declare War..."

Explanation of Connection:

            On May 13 of 1846, Congress voted almost unanimously to delcare war on Mexico, and from it they gained millions of square miles on the American western frontier, but lost the lives of more than 13,000 U.S. soldiers.

            This article clearly demonstrates Article 1, Section 8, Clause 11 of the U.S. Constitution. Congress was given the individual right to declare war by the Constitution. And just under 160 years ago, this is exactly what they did as they diligently "subscribed" the U.S. to a war against Mexico. 

            I do feel that there should be a specific branch in our government that is designated the power to declare war against other national powers. Simply because, it is something that citizens of our country should not have power to decide on because of the lack of eduactaion in some people in these areas. Not many people are fully updated on what is going on with our country on an international perspective today. And even out of those who may be some what imforned, only a few can present an intelligent, wise, and well-thought out opinion on whether or not we should put our country into the dangers of war. However, Congressmen and women are educated on this level, which is why I truly support this particular clause in the U.S. Constitution.