Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam

Which document represents the supreme law of the land?

1. The Articles of Confederation

2. The Declaration of Independence

3. The Bill of Rights

4. The U.S. Constitution

The correct answer is: The U.S. Constitution

The U.S. Constitution is recognized as the supreme law of the land because it establishes the fundamental principles and framework of the federal government. It outlines the structure of government, delineates powers, and guarantees certain rights to citizens. Additionally, the Constitution serves as a legal benchmark for all laws enacted in the country; any law that conflicts with the Constitution is deemed invalid. This principle is established under the Supremacy Clause, which is found in Article VI of the Constitution. The other documents, while historically significant and important in their own right, do not hold the same legal authority. The Articles of Confederation, for instance, was the first governing document of the United States but proved inadequate and was eventually replaced by the Constitution. The Declaration of Independence declared the colonies' intent to separate from British rule but does not function as a governing framework. The Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, protects individual liberties but cannot exist without the Constitution itself. Thus, the U.S. Constitution stands as the cornerstone of American law and governance.