What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is recognized as the supreme law of the land because it established the framework for the United States government and defines the rights and responsibilities of citizens, the government, and its institutions. It is the foundational document upon which the legal system is built, meaning that all laws and government actions must be consistent with what the Constitution states.

This principle of supremacy is crucial for maintaining order and ensuring that no governmental entity operates outside the boundaries set by the Constitution. The Constitution also serves as a check on powers, guarding against abuses and ensuring that individual liberties are protected.

In contrast, the other documents listed serve different purposes and do not function as the foundational law. The Declaration of Independence, while significant, primarily announced the colonies' separation from British rule and outlines the philosophy behind government and rights. The Bill of Rights outlines specific rights and restrictions on government but is a part of the Constitution itself rather than being the supreme legal authority. The Articles of Confederation were an early attempt to govern the newly independent states but proved ineffective, leading to the creation of the Constitution to rectify those shortcomings.