What does the Preamble of the Constitution serve as?

The Preamble of the Constitution serves as an introduction to the Constitution, outlining the fundamental purposes and guiding principles behind the document. It sets the stage for the specific articles and amendments that follow, articulating the goals of the framers and the intentions behind the establishment of the government. The Preamble begins with the famous phrase "We the People," which emphasizes the idea that the authority of the government derives from the people. This introduction also identifies key objectives such as justice, domestic tranquility, common defense, and the promotion of general welfare, providing insight into the values that underpin the Constitution. Through this succinct summary, the Preamble establishes the philosophical foundation of American governance and encourages engagement with the detailed legal structure that follows.