What important document did the United States adopt in 1787?

The important document adopted by the United States in 1787 is the Constitution. This document serves as the foundational legal framework for the country, outlining the structure of government, the separation of powers, and the rights of citizens. The Constitution established a system of checks and balances among the three branches of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

The adoption of the Constitution was a pivotal moment in American history, as it created a strong federal government while also protecting individual liberties. Importantly, the Constitution has been amended several times since its adoption, leading to the inclusion of the Bill of Rights in 1791, which specifically enumerates individuals' rights and freedoms.

The other documents mentioned play significant roles in American history but were adopted at different times and serve different purposes. The Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776 and declared the colonies' independence from British rule. The Bill of Rights is related to the Constitution but was added later. The Emancipation Proclamation, issued in 1863, was crucial for abolishing slavery but is not one of the documents foundational to the structure of government.