What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is considered the supreme law of the land because it establishes the foundational legal framework for the United States government. It outlines the structure of government, delineates the powers and responsibilities of each branch, and guarantees individual rights. Article VI of the Constitution explicitly states that the Constitution, along with federal laws and treaties made under its authority, takes precedence over state laws, affirming its status as the highest form of law in the country.

This supremacy ensures that all state judges must adhere to the Constitution when making decisions, reinforcing a unified legal standard across the nation. The Bill of Rights, while essential for protecting individual freedoms, is part of the Constitution and thus does not represent the overarching document. The Declaration of Independence served as a significant historical document proclaiming the colonies' intent to separate from British rule, but it does not have the force of law. The Articles of Confederation were the first governing document of the United States but were ultimately replaced by the Constitution due to their weaknesses in providing effective governance.