What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is considered the supreme law of the land because it serves as the foundational legal document that establishes the framework of the United States government. It outlines the structure of government, the powers granted to each branch, and the rights of citizens. The supremacy clause, found in Article VI of the Constitution, explicitly states that the Constitution, along with federal laws and treaties made under its authority, is the highest form of law in the country. This means that any law or action taken by state or local governments that conflicts with the Constitution can be deemed unconstitutional and invalid. The Constitution's role as the supreme legal authority ensures the consistent application of laws across the nation and protects individual rights against infringement by government entities.

The other documents referenced, such as the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Bill of Rights, play significant roles in American history and law but do not hold the same status as the Constitution. The Declaration of Independence primarily expresses the country's foundational principles and reasons for seeking independence, while the Articles of Confederation were an earlier form of governance that ultimately proved ineffective. The Bill of Rights, consisting of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, enumerates specific protections for individual liberties but does not itself serve as the overarching law of the