Which document defines the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens?

The Constitution is the foundational document that outlines the structure of the U.S. government and defines the rights and responsibilities of its citizens. It establishes the framework for the federal government, detailing the powers of the three branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial. Furthermore, it sets forth the principles of democracy, including the separation of powers and checks and balances, which are essential to protecting citizens' rights.

While the Bill of Rights specifically enumerates the individual rights and freedoms of citizens, it is part of the Constitution and serves to further clarify and protect those rights. The Declaration of Independence articulates the philosophical underpinnings of American democracy and the right to self-governance, but it does not outline specific rights or responsibilities of citizens. The Emancipation Proclamation, on the other hand, was a wartime measure aimed at ending slavery and does not address citizens' rights and responsibilities in a comprehensive manner. Hence, the Constitution stands as the primary document governing these aspects.