What are the first three words of the Constitution that signify self-government?

The phrase "We the People" is significant because it emphasizes the concept of self-governance inherent in the United States Constitution. These words indicate that the authority of the government is derived from the people, reflecting the principle that the government exists to serve its citizens. This foundational idea is a cornerstone of democracy, affirming that the ultimate power resides with the populace rather than a monarch or centralized authority.

In contrast, other phrases or titles such as "United States Constitution" and "This Constitution for the United States" serve more to identify the document itself rather than to express the concept of governance. "We hold these truths" is part of the Declaration of Independence and does not pertain to the structure of the Constitution. Therefore, "We the People" clearly stands out as the phrase that denotes the essence of democratic self-governance within the Constitution.