A National Archives Resource
The Declaration of Independence states the principles on which our government, and our identity as Americans, are based. Unlike the other founding documents, the Declaration of Independence is not legally binding, but it is powerful. Abraham Lincoln called it “a rebuke and a stumbling-block to tyranny and oppression.” It continues to inspire people around the world to fight for freedom and equality.
The Constitution of the United States is the supreme law of the United States of America. It superseded the Articles of Confederation, the nation’s first constitution. Originally comprising seven articles, it delineates the national frame of government.
The Federalist Papers is a collection of 85 articles and essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay under the collective pseudonym “Publius” to promote the ratification of the United States Constitution.
The United States Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution. It spells out Americans’ rights in relation to their government and guarantees civil rights and liberties to the individual—like freedom of speech, press, and religion.
Nonpartisan Resource & Guide