Which document outlines the framework of the government of the United States?

The U.S. Constitution is the foundational document that establishes the structure, principles, and framework of the government of the United States. It was created during the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and ratified in 1788, serving as the supreme law of the land. The Constitution outlines the roles and powers of the three branches of government: the legislative, executive, and judicial. It also establishes the system of checks and balances designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

The Bill of Rights, while crucial, is actually the first ten amendments to the Constitution and primarily focuses on individual rights and liberties rather than the overall structure of government. The Declaration of Independence, on the other hand, is a historical document proclaiming the colonies' separation from Great Britain and does not outline governmental structure. The Articles of Confederation were the first attempt at governance in the U.S., but they ultimately failed to create a functioning government and were replaced by the Constitution. Therefore, the U.S. Constitution is the definitive document that outlines the framework of the United States government.