LAD/BLOG #2: Peter Zenger
1.) Who was Peter Zenger?
Peter Zenger was a skilled printer who worked for the New-York Weekly Journal. The newspaper had been founded by Lewis Morris, who had been removed from his position as a judge by New York Governor William Cosby. For this reason, the newspaper was very critical of Cosby's administration.
2.) What was the controversy over his charges?
Governor Cosby decided to take legal action against Zenger, because of his criticisms of Cosby. However, Zenger's case was brought in front of two separate grand juries, and both failed to indict him. Because of this, Cosby made the unpopular decision to send Zenger to trial without an indictment. Zenger was also not given legal representation. Because of this, many people thought the trial was unlawful and unfair.
3.) What influence did his case have on American governmental traditions?
While Zenger's case had no major legal effect at the time, it changed the way that the general public thought about freedom of the press. Later on, the case had an impact on the rights specifically mentioned in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
4.) What is the lasting significance of his trial?
Zenger's trial is seen as a key case that reflects the importance of a jury in curbing power. It was widely believed at the time that Governor Cosby was acting wrongly, and the decision by the jury reflected that. For that reason, this case highlights the importance of the judicial branch of government and the impact the juries can have.
Peter Zenger
Zenger's Trial
Salem Witch Trials
Peter Zenger was a skilled printer who worked for the New-York Weekly Journal. The newspaper had been founded by Lewis Morris, who had been removed from his position as a judge by New York Governor William Cosby. For this reason, the newspaper was very critical of Cosby's administration.
2.) What was the controversy over his charges?
Governor Cosby decided to take legal action against Zenger, because of his criticisms of Cosby. However, Zenger's case was brought in front of two separate grand juries, and both failed to indict him. Because of this, Cosby made the unpopular decision to send Zenger to trial without an indictment. Zenger was also not given legal representation. Because of this, many people thought the trial was unlawful and unfair.
3.) What influence did his case have on American governmental traditions?
While Zenger's case had no major legal effect at the time, it changed the way that the general public thought about freedom of the press. Later on, the case had an impact on the rights specifically mentioned in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
4.) What is the lasting significance of his trial?
Zenger's trial is seen as a key case that reflects the importance of a jury in curbing power. It was widely believed at the time that Governor Cosby was acting wrongly, and the decision by the jury reflected that. For that reason, this case highlights the importance of the judicial branch of government and the impact the juries can have.
Peter Zenger
Zenger's Trial
Salem Witch Trials
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