Saturday, September 8, 2012

LAD #2: John Peter Zenger

1. Who was John Peter Zenger?
  • He came from Germany to New York City in 1710. He worked under Bradford and he was an apprentice of the New York Gazette's Printer. He later became a publisher and journalist. He often wrote about his opposition against Cosby who prosecuted Governor Dam 
2.  What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense

  • It was said that Zenger was writing false information in his journals against Cosby. This was controversial because Hamilton stated that his writings were true and he could not be convicted for writing the truth.
3.  What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition?

  • It ruined American traditions. The trial exemplified that juries could nullify unjust laws.
4.  What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain.

  • The major advancement was the freedom of the press. Due to this outcome, newspapers were allowed to criticize things as long as they were true and not false. 

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