The basis for the rights of U. S. citizens is the: Articles of Confederation Constitution Declaration of Independence Magna Carta

Answer: Magna Carta

Explanation:

The Magna Carta (1215), also known as the Great Charter, had been created by feudal barons to force some concessions out of the King John of England. It became a big inspiration for America's Founding Fathers when forging the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. The Bill of Rights held 10 amendments to the Constitution and was ratified by the states in 1791.

The Magna Carta, meaning "Great Charter," is one of the most impactful documents ever written. Originally issued in 1215 by King John of England as a way of dealing with his own political crisis, the Magna Carta was the first governmental decree establishing the principle that all people - including the king - were equally subject to the law.