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

The U.S. Constitution is the document that establishes the framework of the U.S. government. Drafted in 1787, it outlines the structure, powers, and limitations of the federal government and is considered the supreme law of the land. The Constitution includes the three branches of government—legislative, executive, and judicial—and details the processes for making laws, enforcing them, and interpreting them. This foundational document serves not only as a framework for governance but also as a guide for the protection of individual rights through its amendments, ensuring that the government operates within the rule of law and respects the rights of citizens.

The Declaration of Independence, while a crucial historical document that outlined the colonies' reasons for seeking independence from Britain, does not serve as the framework for government structure. The Articles of Confederation were America's first attempt at a governing document, but they proved ineffective and were replaced by the Constitution. The Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, specifically focusing on individual liberties and rights, rather than establishing the government's framework.