LAD #2

1. Who was John Peter Zenger?
Zenger was a German who was in New York in the early 18^th century. He was a printer and editor of the NY Weekly Journal.

2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.
After opposing Governor Cosby in his paper Zenger was charged with sedition libel. The stories written by Zenger about Cosby were very critical and made him so livid that he threw Zenger in Jail. His trail was a quick decision by the jury because of his stories. The trial caused problems and brought up an issue of freedom of press because they were convicting him of voicing his own opinion in the newspaper.

3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition?
This case did have a big impact on American governmental tradition because Zenger was found innocent because the stories he posted were found to be true. This started a controversial debate against judicial dominance in libel cases. It allowed people to speak freely.

4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.
The trials impact lingered for years because it was a point in history where the freedom of press was innovated. Publishers and editors were finally allowed to speak their mind without being punished.