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

The U.S. Constitution is the foundational document that established the framework of the U.S. government. Ratified in 1788, it outlines the structure of the government, including the separation of powers among the three branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial. The Constitution also specifies the powers and responsibilities of each branch, ensuring a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

In addition to establishing the framework, the Constitution also lays out the principles of federalism, articulating the division of powers between the national and state governments. It has been amended 27 times to adapt to changing societal needs and has served as a model for other nations seeking to create their own democratic governments.

The Declaration of Independence, while a critical document in proclaiming the colonies' desire for freedom from British rule, does not establish government structure; rather, it articulates the philosophical underpinnings of individual rights and government by consent. The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, focusing on protecting individual liberties rather than outlining government structure. The Articles of Confederation served as the first governing document but ultimately proved ineffective in addressing the needs of a united nation, leading to the creation of the Constitution.