What is a key purpose of the U.S. Constitution?

The key purpose of the U.S. Constitution is to establish the framework of government. The Constitution serves as the foundational legal document for the United States, outlining the structure of the government, the powers and responsibilities of its branches, and the rights of the citizens. Through its articles and amendments, it sets up the rules and principles that govern the nation, ensuring a system of checks and balances among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. This framework is essential for maintaining order and protecting the rights of individuals, making it a central text in American governance.

In contrast, the concept of creating a monarchy is fundamentally opposed to the values embedded in the Constitution, which promotes democracy and the rule of law rather than hereditary rule. While outlining the responsibilities of citizens is important, it is a secondary function within the broader context of establishing government structure, as the Constitution primarily focuses on governance. Lastly, declaring independence refers to the actions taken prior to the formation of the Constitution, specifically the Declaration of Independence, which is a separate document that announced the colonies' intention to separate from British rule, rather than a purpose of the Constitution itself.