Questions and Answers
What is a treaty?
What is an executive agreement?
A pact between the president and the head, or subordinate, of a foreign state
A treaty is legally binding and part of the supreme law of the land.
True
An executive agreement does not require the approval of the ______.
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Which of the following statements about treaties is true?
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Executive agreements are routinely made each year.
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What is the legal standing of both treaties and executive agreements?
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Study Notes
Treaty
- A treaty is a formal agreement established between two or more sovereign states, often addressing issues like peace, trade, or military alliances.
- To become effective, it requires a two-thirds majority vote in the Senate, ensuring oversight by the legislative branch.
- Treaties are typically negotiated by the Secretary of State, emphasizing the role of the executive branch in foreign relations.
- Once ratified, treaties are legally binding and considered part of the "supreme law of the land," holding significant authority within the U.S. legal system.
Executive Agreement
- An executive agreement is a pact made between the president and a foreign state or its representatives, allowing for swift and flexible foreign policy actions.
- Unlike treaties, executive agreements do not require Senate approval, enabling the president to act unilaterally on international agreements.
- Numerous executive agreements are routinely negotiated and executed each year, illustrating their frequent use in diplomatic relations.
Comparison
- Both treaties and executive agreements hold the same legal standing as acts passed by Congress, reinforcing their importance in U.S. law and governance.
- Each serves as a vital tool for the United States in managing international relations and commitments, albeit through different processes and requirements.
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Description
This quiz explores the differences between treaties and executive agreements within U.S. foreign relations. It covers the formal processes, the roles of the Senate and the President, and the implications of these agreements on international law. Test your knowledge on how these legal instruments shape diplomacy.
