John Peter Zenger

Journalist

Birthday October 26, 1697

Birth Sign Scorpio

Birthplace Germany

DEATH DATE Jul 26, 1748 (50)

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About

German American journalist who was involved in the landmark 1735 court case which established that the truth was a defense against being sued for libel.

Before Fame

He began printing The New York Weekly Journal in 1733 and used it as a vehicle to criticize governor William Cosby.

Trivia

"The Zenger Trial" established a strong precedent for upholding freedom of the press in the United States.

Family Life

His son, John, continued printing his journal after his death.

Associated With

Bronson Cutting was a 20th century American politician who also fought for freedom of the press.