1. Who was John Peter Zenger? He was a man who created a New York newspaper in order to criticize the new Governor, William Cosby.
2. What was the controversy over his charges? Talk about Hamilton's defense. The persecutor said that Zenger wrote untrue libel about Cosby. Hamilton said that it wasn’t libel unless it was true, and also stated that the truth is an absolute defense against libel. This controversy allowed Zenger to be acquitted of his charges.
3. What influence did his case have on American governmental tradition? Now more people utilize the freedom of press and are not afraid to speak their mind. And also, this set a precedent against “judicial tyranny in libel suits”.
4. What is the lasting significance of his trial? Explain. He was the first man to really stand up against a higher power by using the press and he affirmed freedom of the press for everyone else.