Undeclared War

Undeclared War, Volume 1, examines the shifting landscape of American constitutional authority regarding military hostilities. Edward Keynes analyzes how aggressive presidents and passive congresses have expanded executive power throughout the twentieth century. This political science and constitutional history text investigates the transition of the presidential role from a defensive commander to an initiator of undeclared war. The author explores the legal precedents set during the Vietnam War and how judicial decisions have contributed to a fusion of legislative and executive powers.

This study of executive power and war and emergency powers provides a thorough legal analysis of the relationship between the White House, Congress, and the Supreme Court. By reviewing historical judicial decisions from 1800 through the Korean War, the book identifies the constitutional challenges posed by modern guerrilla warfare and national liberation movements. Keynes argues that only Congress can effectively restore the balance of power by requiring a prior consensus before any military intervention occurs.