Which historical document established the principle of popular sovereignty in the newly formed United States?

The principle of popular sovereignty, which asserts that the authority of the government is created and sustained by the consent of its people, is firmly established in the U.S. Constitution. This foundational document outlines a system of government that is designed to reflect the will of the people through elected representatives. The Constitution begins with the phrase "We the People," indicating that its authority derives from the collective agreement of the citizens.

The U.S. Constitution not only sets up a framework for government but also incorporates the idea that the legitimacy of governing power is based on the people's choices. It includes mechanisms for voting and representation, ensuring that the government is accountable to the desires of the electorate. This core concept of democracy is a departure from monarchical and authoritarian systems, positioning the citizens as the ultimate source of political power.

In contrast, the Articles of Confederation primarily served as the first constitution of the United States but did not effectively embody the concept of popular sovereignty as it lacked a strong federal structure and gave significant power to the states. The Federalist Papers were essays advocating for the ratification of the Constitution, providing insights into its principles but not establishing the concept itself. The Declaration of Independence expresses the idea of popular sovereignty in the context of justifying separation from Britain, emphasizing