LAD #2: John Peter Zenger

                                                         John Peter Zenger Trial, 1735

1. Who was John Peter Zenger? 

Zenger, who had come over to New York from Germany, was the printer of the New York Weekly Journal. He strongly opposed the policies of Governor William Cosby, and expressed these views by printing critical articles in his newspaper. For this, he was arrested and charged with seditious libel, and spent 8 months in prison. 

2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.

Philadelphia lawyer Andrew Hamilton that charges were incorrect in that it could not truly be considered libel unless the stories published by Zenger were false. Thus, there were no substantial charges, leading to the verdict of "not guilty". 

3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition?

By winning the case, Zenger showed that citizens had a right to express their own views and have say in government/political matters. It showed that the government does not have complete control, and that the citizens have a large role in running the country. Essentially, it made clearer the main concepts of democracy. 

4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.

In a country where the media has such a large influence on the citizens, the advancement of freedom of the press that the Zenger trial caused is extremely important. Basically, this trial proved that American citizens would have the right to voice their opinions; a right that is a cornerstone of American society.