What does the Constitution do?

The Constitution of the United States serves as the foundational legal document that establishes the framework for the government and outlines the fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed to all Americans. By creating a system of checks and balances among the three branches of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—it ensures that power is distributed and that no single branch becomes too powerful. Additionally, the Constitution enshrines key principles such as individual liberties and protections, primarily found in the Bill of Rights, which safeguard the rights of citizens against government overreach. This dual function of organizing the government while simultaneously protecting citizens' rights is integral to the document's purpose and significance in American governance.