The Zenger case, decided in 1735, helped establish the right of freedom of the press in America. John Peter Zenger was acquitted of libel charges after publishing criticisms of the colonial governor, setting a precedent that truth could be a defense against libel. This case emphasized the importance of a free press as a check on government power and contributed significantly to the development of First Amendment rights. Ultimately, it laid the groundwork for the legal protections of journalistic expression and accountability in the U.S.
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