What is the purpose of the supremacy clause in the Constitution?

The supremacy clause, found in Article VI, Clause 2 of the U.S. Constitution, establishes that the Constitution, along with federal laws and treaties made under its authority, is the supreme law of the land. This means that when state laws and constitutions are in conflict with federal laws, the federal laws take precedence. The intent of the supremacy clause is to ensure a consistent legal framework across the country, preventing states from enacting laws that would undermine or contradict federal legislation or constitutional provisions. This underlines the central authority of the federal government in areas where it has jurisdiction, reinforcing the principle of federalism within the United States.