What document outlines the framework of the United States government?

The Constitution is the foundational document that outlines the framework of the United States government. It was drafted in 1787 and established the structure, functions, and powers of the three branches of government: the Legislative, the Executive, and the Judicial. The Constitution not only delineates the powers of each branch but also includes provisions for checks and balances to ensure that no single branch becomes too powerful. Furthermore, it contains the processes for amending the document itself, allowing for adaptability as the nation evolves.

In contrast, the Declaration of Independence, while crucial for establishing the United States' sovereignty, primarily asserts the colonies' reasons for breaking away from British rule and does not outline government structure. The Articles of Confederation, the first governing document of the United States, created a system of government with limited central authority and significant state autonomy, which ultimately proved inadequate for the needs of the nation. The Bill of Rights, a series of amendments added to the Constitution, enumerates individual rights but is not a framework for government itself. Thus, the Constitution stands as the primary document that defines how the U.S. government operates.