What is considered the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is considered the supreme law of the land because it establishes the foundational legal framework for the United States government and serves as the highest authority in legal matters. All laws and government actions must comply with the Constitution, and it is the document from which all federal and state laws derive their power.

The Constitution not only outlines the structure of government, detailing the powers and responsibilities of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches but also enshrines the fundamental rights of the citizens. Its supremacy means that in the case of any conflict between it and other laws, the Constitution prevails, ensuring a uniform rule of law across the country.

In contrast, the Declaration of Independence serves as a historic assertion of the colonies' intention to separate from British rule and outlines the principles of individual rights and government by consent. The Bill of Rights, comprising the first ten amendments to the Constitution, specifically protects individual liberties but does not function as a standalone document of legal authority. Finally, the Articles of Confederation were the original governing document of the United States but were ultimately deemed insufficient and replaced by the Constitution, which rectified various issues present in the earlier framework.