What is the primary purpose of the U.S. Constitution?

The primary purpose of the U.S. Constitution is to establish a national government, which is the foundational framework for the political system of the United States. It outlines the structure of the government, delineating the powers and responsibilities of the three branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This structure is essential for maintaining order, providing governance, and ensuring the rule of law in the nation.

The Constitution serves to unify the states under a central authority while also protecting individual liberties through the Bill of Rights. By creating this framework, the Constitution not only set forth the organization of the government but also established principles such as federalism and separation of powers that are vital for functioning democracy.

The other options do not capture the primary purpose of the Constitution. Granting citizenship is a function of the laws that stem from the Constitution, but it is not the central aim of the document itself. Declaring independence was accomplished through the Declaration of Independence, which predates the Constitution. Creating national parks is a function of governmental agencies and legislation, but it is not a fundamental purpose of the Constitution. Thus, the establishment of a national government stands as the most accurate and encompassing purpose of the U.S. Constitution.