The overarching ideology expressed in the U.S. Constitution encompasses principles of democracy, federalism, separation of powers, and individual rights. Drafted in 1787, the Constitution aimed to create a robust framework for governance that balanced power between the federal and state governments while ensuring the protection of citizens' liberties. The Bill of Rights, ratified in 1791, explicitly safeguarded personal freedoms such as speech, religion, and due process. These foundational ideas reflect Enlightenment influences, advocating for a government that derives its power from the consent of the governed and emphasizing the importance of checks and balances to prevent tyranny, ensuring a system of accountable and representative governance.