What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is referred to as the supreme law of the land because it establishes the fundamental principles and framework for the governance of the United States. It outlines the structure of the federal government, delineates the powers of its branches, and guarantees certain rights and freedoms to the citizens.

The supremacy clause, found in Article VI of the Constitution, clearly states that the Constitution, along with federal laws made pursuant to it, takes precedence over any state laws or constitutions. This hierarchical structure ensures a unified legal framework throughout the country and maintains the rule of law.

In contrast, the Bill of Rights, while crucial as it enumerates specific individual rights and freedoms, functions as an amendment to the Constitution rather than a standalone governing document. The Declaration of Independence served primarily to articulate the colonies' reasons for seeking independence from British rule and does not serve as a governing document. Lastly, the Treaty of Paris signifies agreements between nations but does not have the same legal authority or standing as the Constitution. Therefore, recognizing the Constitution as the supreme law establishes the foundational legal structure of the United States.