What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is referred to as the supreme law of the land because it establishes the foundational legal framework for the United States government and outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the government and the citizens. It supersedes any conflicting legislation or state laws and serves as the highest authority in the legal system. This principle is crucial for maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that all laws are consistent with the Constitution.

In contrast, while the Declaration of Independence is a significant historical document outlining the principles of liberty and justice, it does not function as a governing document. The Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, which guarantees specific rights to individuals, but it is part of the Constitution rather than an independent document that serves as the supreme law. The Articles of Confederation were the first governing document of the United States, but they proved ineffective and were ultimately replaced by the Constitution, indicating that they do not hold supreme authority today.