What document establishes the framework of the U.S. government?

The Constitution is the foundational document that establishes the framework of the U.S. government. Ratified in 1788, it serves as the supreme law of the land, outlining the structure, powers, and functions of the three branches of government: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Furthermore, the Constitution sets forth the principles of federalism and the separation of powers, establishing a system of checks and balances meant to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

In comparison, the other documents mentioned serve different purposes. The Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, guarantees individual liberties and protections but does not establish government structure. The Declaration of Independence, adopted in 1776, announces the colonies' separation from British rule and articulates the philosophical basis for independence, but it does not set up a system of government. The Articles of Confederation initially governed the United States but were ultimately deemed ineffective due to their inability to create a strong central government, leading to the drafting of the Constitution. Thus, it is the Constitution that truly defines and establishes the operational framework of the U.S. government.