What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is recognized as the supreme law of the land in the United States, as established by Article VI, Clause 2 of the Constitution, which declares that the Constitution, along with federal laws made pursuant to it and treaties made under its authority, takes precedence over state laws and constitutions. This foundational document outlines the framework for the federal government, delineates the powers of its branches, and establishes the rights of the citizens, making it central to American law and governance.

In contrast, the Declaration of Independence is a historic document asserting the colonies' separation from British rule and outlining principles of individual rights but does not serve as a governing document. The Bill of Rights, consisting of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, is crucial as it enumerates specific protections for individual liberties, yet it is derived from the Constitution rather than being the supreme law itself. The Federalist Papers, a collection of writings by key figures like Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, were instrumental in promoting the ratification of the Constitution but are not laws or legal documents. Therefore, the Constitution holds the position of supreme law, guiding the legal framework of the nation.