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

The purpose of the U.S. Constitution is to outline the structure of the government. It establishes the framework for the federal government, detailing the roles and responsibilities of the three branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This foundational document lays down the principles of governance, including the separation of powers and checks and balances, which are essential for preventing any one branch from becoming too powerful. By providing a clear structure, the Constitution ensures that government operates within defined limits and protects the rights of individuals.

The other options focus on specific functions or areas that the Constitution does not primarily address. For example, while the Constitution does allow for the creation of institutions like a national bank under certain circumstances, its primary role is not to create specific entities but rather to define the broader governance framework. Similarly, the Constitution does not dictate state laws, as states maintain the right to govern within their borders independent of federal mandates. While it does mention international treaties, the Constitution’s primary focus is not on these treaties themselves but rather on how they are to be processed through the federal government.