What is the supreme law of the land?

The correct answer is the Constitution because it establishes the framework of the federal government and outlines the rights of the states and the people. It is recognized as the supreme law of the land under the Supremacy Clause, which means that any law or government action that conflicts with the Constitution can be declared invalid. This foundational document creates the legal structure within which all other laws, including federal laws and the Bill of Rights, exist and are interpreted.

The Bill of Rights, while crucial in protecting individual liberties, is actually a part of the Constitution and does not hold the same overarching authority. The Declaration of Independence serves as an important historical document asserting the colonies' intent to separate from British rule, but it does not contain any governing laws or principles. Federal laws are created under the authority of the Constitution, but they are subordinate to it. Therefore, the Constitution's status as the supreme law ensures that all entities within the United States must adhere to its principles.