aug 4, 1735 - August 4th, 1735 - Trial of New York Weekly Journal Editor John Peter
Description:
Description: In 1733 John Zenger was accused of libel. Libel, during the 1730’s, was described as writing something opposing the government. Zenger was ordered to stand trial on charges of libel against the government.
Causes: Famous lawyer Alexander Hamilton defended Zenger in his trial and demanded the government prove what he printed was not true. The New York Weekly Journal continued to run during his trial and reported daily on the details of the trial. Zenger was subsequently acquitted of the charges and continued to operate the newspaper.
Historical Impact: This trial established the Freedom of the Press in the New World and established one of the pillars of liberty and democracy in America.
Added to timeline:
1607-1877
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