The idea of self-government is in the first three words of the Constitution. What are these words?

The phrase "We the People" is significant because it establishes the foundational principle of self-government and popular sovereignty in the United States. It signifies that the authority of the government is derived from the people, emphasizing that the government exists to serve the citizens who have the power to govern themselves. This phrase reflects the democratic ideals upon which the nation was built, highlighting the importance of collective decision-making and representation.

Additionally, this choice highlights the unity of the nation, suggesting that all citizens—not just a particular state or government entity—are integral to the functioning and legitimacy of the constitutional framework. This sets the tone for the rest of the Constitution, which outlines the structure of government and the rights of the individuals, reinforcing the idea that government should be responsible and accountable to the people it serves.