What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is recognized as the supreme law of the land in the United States. This designation means that it serves as the foundational legal framework for the country, establishing the structure of government, the powers of different branches, and the rights of citizens. It is the highest form of law in the country and any laws or actions by government must be in accordance with the Constitution.

The Constitution’s supremacy is established in Article VI, which states that the Constitution, along with federal laws made pursuant to it and treaties made under its authority, shall be the supreme law of the land. This principle ensures that the Constitution prevails over any conflicting state laws or other legal documentation, reinforcing its authority and importance in American law and governance.

The Declaration of Independence, while a significant historical document that articulated the colonies' intentions to separate from British rule, does not function as a governing legal structure. Similarly, the Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution and focuses on individual liberties, whereas the Articles of Confederation served as an early attempt at governance that ultimately proved inadequate, leading to the creation of the current Constitution.