The significance of the War Powers Act in U.S. governance lies in its intention to limit the President's ability to engage military action without congressional approval. Enacted in 1973 following the Vietnam War, this legislation aims to ensure that both the legislative and executive branches share responsibility for military decisions. It requires the President to notify Congress within 48 hours of deploying forces and limits armed conflict to 60 days without authorization from Congress. The Act reflects the ongoing struggle for checks and balances in U.S. foreign policy, seeking to prevent unilateral military engagements.