The U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the United States, established in 1787. It outlines the framework of the federal government, dividing it into three branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial. This separation of powers is designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. The Constitution also includes the Bill of Rights, which consists of the first ten amendments that guarantee individual freedoms and rights, such as freedom of speech and religion. Over the years, the Constitution has been amended 27 times to address changing societal needs and values.