Which document outlines the framework of the U.S. government?

The Constitution of the United States serves as the foundational legal document that delineates the structure and functioning of the U.S. government. It establishes the principles of federalism, separation of powers, and checks and balances among thethree branches of government: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The Constitution articulates the powers granted to each branch and provides a framework for the relationships between the federal government and the states, as well as the rights of individuals.

While the Federalist Papers are important writings that advocate for the ratification of the Constitution and explain its provisions, they do not themselves provide the framework of government. The Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, specifically enumerates and guarantees individual rights but does not establish the overall governmental structure. The Magna Carta, though historically significant, is a separate document from the 13th century that influenced legal and political thought but is not a governing document for the United States. Thus, the Constitution is the only document among the options that directly outlines the framework of the U.S. government.