Commander-in-Chief of the Army

Definition

The title given to the person who has ultimate authority and responsibility over the military. In the United States, this is the President.

Analogy

Think of a football team. The coach calls all the plays and makes strategic decisions, just like how the Commander-in-Chief directs military operations.

Related terms

Commander-in-Chief of the Navy: This is another role held by the U.S. President, giving them control over naval operations.

War Powers Act: A federal law intended to check the president's power to commit the United States to an armed conflict without congressional consent.

Civilian Control of Military: The principle that decisions about a country's defense and military should be made by civilian leadership rather than by armed forces.