[Huck]

What would be the point of this provision if it didn't require the Executive to get a declaration?

How should I know? Diplomatic reasons? International protocol? Fact is, from the standpoint of strict construction, I can't find any requirement in the Constitution along the lines of "Congress shall authorize no troops without a declaration of war." That would settle the matter, 'cept it ain't there.

[oursacredhonor]

I'll check the Federalist Papers when I get home. There has to be mention of it in there. This is a very interesting debate and I am curious to see what the Founders actually thought.