Florida Civic Literacy Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive Study Guide

The Constitution serves as the foundation of the U.S. legal system because it establishes the framework for government, defines the structure of the federal and state governments, and outlines the fundamental principles and rights that guide the nation's laws. It is the supreme law of the land, meaning that all laws and policies must be in accordance with its provisions.

The Constitution lays out the roles and powers of the three branches of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—ensuring a system of checks and balances. This is crucial for maintaining a separation of powers and preventing any one branch from becoming too powerful. Furthermore, it includes the processes for making amendments, allowing for flexibility and adaptation over time while preserving its core principles.

While the Bill of Rights enumerates specific individual rights and protections, it is an extension of the Constitution and relies on the framework that the Constitution provides. The Declaration of Independence, while historically significant, primarily served as a formal statement of separation from British rule and does not establish legal governance. The Emancipation Proclamation was a crucial executive order that aimed to end slavery but does not serve as a foundational legal document within the structure of U.S. law.