Missouri Higher Education Civics Achievement Practice Exam

The Constitution is the foundational document that establishes the framework of the U.S. government. It outlines the structure, powers, and responsibilities of the three branches of government (executive, legislative, and judicial) and delineates the relationships between the federal government and the states. Additionally, the Constitution sets forth the principles of democracy, including the separation of powers and checks and balances, which are essential to creating a balanced and fair government.

The other documents listed serve important purposes in American history but do not provide the overall framework of government. The Declaration of Independence primarily articulates the reasons for the colonies' separation from Britain and promotes the values of liberty and democracy. The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, which protect individual liberties and rights but do not outline the structure of government itself. The Articles of Confederation served as the first governing document of the United States but were ultimately replaced by the Constitution due to their inefficacies in providing a strong central government.