What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is recognized as the supreme law of the land because it establishes the foundational legal framework for the United States government and its relationship with the states and citizens. As the highest legal authority, the Constitution outlines the structure of the government, delineates powers and responsibilities among the branches, and protects individual rights.

It serves as a comprehensive document that guides legislation, judicial decisions, and executive actions, ensuring that all laws made within the country are compliant with its principles and provisions. Any law that conflicts with the Constitution can be declared unconstitutional and therefore invalid, further solidifying its role as the supreme authority in the United States.

In contrast, the Bill of Rights specifically addresses individual liberties and restrictions on government power but is part of the broader Constitution rather than a standalone legal framework. The Declaration of Independence serves as a historical document proclaiming the colonies' separation from British rule, outlining the philosophical basis for government and individual rights, but it does not function as legal authority. The Articles of Confederation were an earlier governing document that proved inadequate in maintaining order and unity and were eventually replaced by the Constitution, which rectified those limitations, reinforcing the Constitution's status as the supreme law.