One of the U.S. president’s most significant roles is serving as commander in chief, the top authority over all branches of the United States military. But where does this title come from, and what exactly does it entail? Constitutional Origins The Founding Fathers used the term “commander in chief” when drafting Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution. It states: “The President shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the...
