Teaching Democracy: The Power of the Presidency

Vice-President Lyndon B. Johnson
Vice-President Lyndon B. Johnson standing among group of Vietnamese soldiers and Americans during a visit to Saigon, South Vietnam. May 12, 1962. Thomas J. O’Halloran, Photographer. Source: Library of Congress, Prints & Photograph Division. http://www.loc.gov/pictures/item/2011661233.

This lesson focuses on the war-making powers of the Presidency, with a specific focus on the Vietnam War. Students will first review the President’s Commander in Chief powers outlined in the Constitution.

Inquiry Question

How did the President’s war-making powers evolve over the course of the Vietnam War?

Skills

Citing Sources Corroboration Writing an Argument
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