The Constitution and American Foreign Policy

Recognized the need for a stronger, centralized government. The U.S. was divided, with no single voice.

Four crucial powers were given to the central government: to tax, to build an army, to control foreign commercial activity, and to make war.

The authority to:

• Tax - Senate
• Control Commerce - Senate
• Raise an army and Make War - President with Senate ratification.
• Make Treaties - Presiudent with Senate ratification

There was a debate concerning who would hold this power. And how each state was to be represented. Proportional or fixed state representation?

It was finally decided that fixed representation, 2 senators per state, would be established.

The Constitution and Treaties as the Supreme law, over the state laws.

The constitution serves as the supreme law of the land. Includes any treaties ratified by the senate. States may not oppose these decisions.

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