Which document serves as a plan for the United States government?

The Constitution serves as the foundational governing document of the United States, outlining the structure of the government, its powers, and the rights of the citizens. It establishes the framework within which the government operates, detailing the roles of the three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. Additionally, the Constitution provides procedures for making amendments, ensuring that it can adapt to changing needs over time.

In contrast, the Bill of Rights, which is comprised of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, specifically enumerates the rights and freedoms guaranteed to individuals. While it plays a crucial role in protecting civil liberties, it does not provide a comprehensive plan for government operation.

The Articles of Confederation preceded the Constitution and served as the first governing document, but it established a much weaker federal government, leading to a realization that a more robust framework was necessary, ultimately resulting in the drafting of the Constitution.

The Declaration of Independence, while a crucial historical document, primarily declares the aspirations of the United States to be free from British rule and expresses the principles of individual liberty and government by consent of the governed, rather than serving as a plan for government organization.