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

The primary purpose of the U.S. Constitution is to establish the framework of government and protect individual rights. This foundational document lays out the structure and powers of the three branches of government: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. It delineates the relationships and responsibilities of these branches to ensure a system of checks and balances, which aims to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

Furthermore, the Constitution includes the Bill of Rights, which explicitly enumerates individual rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. This emphasis on protecting personal liberties is a critical aspect of the Constitution's purpose, ensuring that the rights of citizens are safeguarded against potential government overreach.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the Constitution's overarching objectives. While the Constitution does involve aspects of regulating treaties and can influence economic guidelines, these are not its primary focuses. Additionally, it certainly has legal authority and is far from merely a historical document; it serves as the supreme law of the land, guiding legal and governmental processes in the United States.