Zenger Trial

1. Who was John Peter Zenger?
John Peter Zenger was the founder and printer of the New York Weekly Journal which voiced the opposition of Governor William Cosby's policies. On Sunday, November 17, 1734 he was arrested and charged with seditious libel and then spent more than eight months in prison. Zenger was defended by lawyer Andrew Hamilton and was ultimately found not guilty.

2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.
The controversy was that Zenger was convicted due to true publications. Hamilton therefore defended his case stating that Zenger wrote the offending stories but because the publications were true Zenger was not libel. In addition, Hamilton used laws and facts throughout his appeal and ultimatley swayed the jury to acqquite Zenger.

3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition?
This case set a precedent against judicial tryanny in libel suits. Also it established a policy of without falsehood, there (usually) can be no libel. The Zenger trial was a huge victory for freedom of press.

4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.
The Zenger trials are still discussed today by our nation's leaders. When looking over the First Amendment the Zenger trial was considered and therefore the First Amendment now includes freedom of press. This establishment of freedom of press is critical to the functioning of the America. The press allows the people learn and maintain our other freedoms as well as fuels the press industry in America such as the Zenger News Service.