Which document outlines the structure and function of the U.S. government?

The Constitution is the foundational document that establishes the framework for the United States government. It outlines the structure, functions, and powers of the different branches of government, including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. By delineating the roles and responsibilities of each branch, the Constitution provides a system of checks and balances designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

Additionally, the Constitution includes important aspects such as the Bill of Rights, which guarantees individual freedoms and rights. This document serves as the supreme law of the land, and all laws and government actions must align with its principles.

The Federalist Papers are a collection of essays advocating for the ratification of the Constitution but do not serve to organize or define the government structure themselves. The Declaration of Independence, while significant for outlining the reasons for America's separation from British rule, does not address governance. The Articles of Confederation were an earlier attempt at governance that ultimately proved ineffective, leading to the drafting of the Constitution to create a stronger national framework.