Which document outlines the foundational principles of American government?

The Constitution of the United States is the document that outlines the foundational principles of American government. It establishes the framework for the national government, delineating the structure, powers, and responsibilities of the three branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial. Additionally, it includes fundamental principles such as the separation of powers, checks and balances, and federalism, which are essential to the functioning of the government and the protection of individual rights.

While the Declaration of Independence articulates the reasons for seeking independence and establishes the moral justification for the break from Britain, and the Bill of Rights enumerates specific protections for individual liberties, it is the Constitution that serves as the supreme law of the land, providing the foundational legal basis for the government. The Articles of Confederation served as the first governing document but were ultimately deemed insufficient and replaced by the Constitution. Thus, the Constitution is the central authoritative text that outlines the principles upon which American governance is built.