Final answer:
Members of Congress have historically agreed to pass war declarations for reasons including national interest defense, responses to attacks, and supporting moral or ideological positions, as exemplified by the US's entry into World War I and the War of 1812.
Step-by-step explanation:
Throughout history, members of Congress have agreed to pass declarations of war for various reasons. Common factors influencing such decisions include the protection of national interests, the defense of allies, responses to direct attacks, and the assertion of moral or ideological positions.
For instance, World War I saw the US Congress declare war on Germany following the Zimmermann telegram's exposure and Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare, which led to American casualties. The intercept hinted at a German plot to ally with Mexico against the United States, which, coupled with the sinking of American vessels, became a compelling argument for war. Meanwhile, the notion of defending democratic ideals gained traction with the Russian Revolution in February 1917, enhancing the moral justification for the US's entry into the war.
Similarly, during the War of 1812, the continued harassment of American shipping by the British and the influence of the War Hawks led President Madison to seek a declaration of war. The British threat and the War Hawks' vocal advocacy swayed Congress's decision. In modern times, the War Powers Resolution of 1973 was passed to reassert congressional authority in war-making despite President Nixon's veto. It aimed to create a framework for presidential actions in military conflicts and underscored the constitutional responsibilities held by Congress in such declarations.
Other moments in history where the war declaration was seen as favorable include administrations that launched campaigns like the 'War on Terror' where military action was seen as necessary to protect the nation and gain public support. In all these instances, Congressional approval was predicated on a mix of strategic, moral, and sometimes economic considerations.