What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is considered the supreme law of the land because it establishes the framework for the federal government and outlines the fundamental principles and rights of the citizens. It serves as the highest legal authority in the United States, meaning that all laws, whether federal or state, must align with its provisions. Any law or action that contradicts the Constitution can be declared unconstitutional and thus invalid.

The Declaration of Independence, while a significant historical document that articulated the colonies' desire for freedom from British rule, does not serve as a legal framework for governance. The Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, protects specific rights of the individuals but does not hold the same overarching authority as the Constitution itself. The Emancipation Proclamation was a critical document in ending slavery but also does not serve as foundational law and is not considered the supreme law of the land. This understanding is crucial for grasping the structure of American governance and the role of the Constitution in protecting citizens' rights and liberties.