John Peter Zenger was an American journalist originally from Germany who started to print The New York Weekly Journal. This Journal was critical of governor William Cosby's policies, which angered Crosby, and Zenger was charged with seditious libel.
2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.
The controversy over his charges focused on the idea of seditious libel. Hamilton pleaded that Zenger should not be charged with seditious libel because his journal contained true statements about Cosby.
3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition?
The Trial of John Peter Zenger enhanced the idea of Freedom of the Press. The American government is not permitted to charge the press for publishing downgrading statements, if they are true.
4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.
The John Peter Zenger Trial promoted the need for a grand jury in a court case so that the government could not unjustly determine if an individual is innocent or guilty. The trial also had a lasting effect on the development of the First Amendment.
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