Which document laid the groundwork for the U.S. Constitution?

The Articles of Confederation is the correct answer because it was the first governing document of the United States, adopted after independence from Britain in 1781. While it had several weaknesses—such as a lack of a strong central government and the inability to levy taxes—it provided a framework for governance that highlighted the need for a more effective system. The limitations experienced under the Articles led to the Constitutional Convention in 1787, where the U.S. Constitution was drafted. This new constitution addressed the shortcomings of the Articles by creating a stronger federal government with separate branches, checks and balances, and a clearer set of powers. Thus, the Articles of Confederation directly influenced the creation of the Constitution by revealing what was necessary for a functional governing structure.