Which document outlines the foundational principles of American democracy?

The Constitution is the foundational document that outlines the principles of American democracy. It establishes the framework of the government, delineates the branches of government, and defines the relationship between the federal government and the states. Additionally, the Constitution embodies crucial democratic principles such as popular sovereignty, limited government, checks and balances, and the rule of law. It serves as the supreme law of the land, guiding the legal and political structure of the United States, and is fundamental in ensuring that the rights of citizens are protected and that power is distributed among different branches to prevent tyranny.

In contrast, the Articles of Confederation served as the first constitution but were deemed ineffective in creating a strong national government. The Bill of Rights, while essential for protecting individual freedoms, is a series of amendments to the Constitution rather than a foundational document on its own. The Federalist Papers are a collection of essays that advocate for the ratification of the Constitution and explain its structure and principles, but they are not the primary document outlining American democracy itself.