LAD #2-Zenger Trial

1. Who was John Peter Zenger? He was a Journalist that started controversy by exposing corrupt practices of British government. During the 1700s this was a serious crime.
2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense. The controversy was weather or not the info should be published. Zenger was charged with “seditious libel” meaning he stirred up rebellion against the government by publishing info to damage a person’s reputation. Hamilton’s defense argued that Zenger published info, denying the printed material was only libel unless false.
3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition? This case later established that journalists could publish info, but it must be factual or they were liable, this is known as freedom of press.4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain. The lasting significance was the creation of the Constitution. The first amendment states that one has freedom or religion, press, assembly, speech, and petition. However, freedom of press does not allow one to publish something false that could negatively affect others.