1) Who was John Peter Zenger?
Peter Zenger was a journalist who voiced his opinions freely in the New York Weekly Journal, about the onerous policies of the newly appointed governor William Cosby. For example Crosby prosecuted the interim Governor, Rip Van Dam, and removed Chief Justice Lewis Morris from the courts. He was put through a trial in which he was charged with seditious libel. In the end he was found not guilty.
2) What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.
Peter Zenger was charged with seditious libel. Though this means making up lies about something. Though, Zenger was telling the truth about Crosby. The controversy was in that the governor could not condemn Zenger for telling the truth. Hamilton was able to sway the jury with this fact and Zenger was found not guilty.
3) What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition?
The Zenger trial influenced our government in many ways. It set a precedent for many later cases. It developed one of our biggest laws, freedom of the press. People were now, not afraid to say what they believed in. It also ended all judicial tyranny in libel suits.
4) What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.
The lasting significance of Zenger’s trial was again the establishment of freedom of the press. It was a part of our first amendment and will be treasured forever, in America. It allowed people to speak of their own opinions.
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