Question

which document set up the basic principles and laws that determine the power and duties of the government

Answer 1

Well if we are talking about the United States than:

We have the Bill Of Rights
but before that we had the articles of confederation which was the original constitution of the US, ratified in 1781,Which we receive guiding principles from Britain.  Articles of Confederation was replaced by the US Constitution in 1789.
Hope that helps!<span />