zenger

Trial of John Peter Zenger (1735)
1. Who was John Peter Zenger?

John Peter Zenger, the German emigrate, was the publisher of the newspaper, New York Weekly Journal. Because this journal exposed corrupt policies of the British, Zenger was arrested on the 17th of November 1733, leading up the most renowned trial in the history of American journalism.

2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense.
Zenger’s charges were controversial because although he was guilty of, and admitted to, publishing the scandalous articles; the question of freedom of speech is raised. The well respected Lawyer Andrew Hamilton from Philadelphia, defended Zenger, arguing eloquently to the jury that as long as the articles contained truthful facts, it deserved to be considered. Although before this trial, any criticism of British policies was punishable, the trial was acquitted.

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

This celebrated case influenced American governmental tradition in several ways, pressing for the further foundation of civil rights, more specifically the freedom of speech and press. The term “innocent until proven guilty” also comes into play as Zenger was able to walk free from his trial, not guilty by the decision of the jurors, after previously being arrested and condemned.


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

The emphasis on life, liberty, and freedom, were heightened ever after Zenger’s trial. The media is allowed to say, publish and produce without having to consult the government, as freedom of speech and press continues to be a part of the cultural society of the United States of America.