Which document outlines the framework for the government in the United States?

The Constitution is the foundational document that outlines the framework for the government in the United States. It establishes the structure and powers of the three branches of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—and defines the relationship between the federal government and the states. Furthermore, the Constitution includes provisions for the amendment process, ensuring that it can adapt to changing needs over time.

While the Articles of Confederation served as the first governing document of the United States, it ultimately proved to be ineffective in creating a strong central government, leading to its replacement by the Constitution. The Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, guaranteeing individual liberties but does not serve as a complete framework for government. The Federalist Papers are a series of essays that support the adoption of the Constitution but do not themselves outline the framework of the government. Thus, the Constitution is central to understanding the U.S. governmental structure.